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Getting Down to Business

Getting Down to Business. An Introduction to Business Research. “Not only was I able to find the information that I needed, the different business research sources opened my eyes to what was really going on in the business world and how everything tied together.

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Getting Down to Business

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  1. Getting Down to Business An Introduction to Business Research “Not only was I able to find the information that I needed, the different business research sources opened my eyes to what was really going on in the business world and how everything tied together. What was even a bigger asset to me however was the effect it had on how I now perceive the classes that I am taking. I am not just learning theories and terminology but can see where what I am learning is used and how it ties into every other class I am taking. The business research class has taken me to another level of understanding and insight in my studies and the way the business world works in general.” - Fall 2010 Business Certificate Student

  2. Getting Down to Business An Introduction to Business Research Jeff Graveline, JD, MLIS Reference Librarian for Business, Mervyn H. Sterne Library

  3. Mechanics of the Program • 8 fifty-five minute sessions • Must complete 6 of 8 sessions • Hands-on research practice • Series of weekly in-class questions • Offered during Spring & Fall semesters

  4. You’ll learn how design an effective research plan You’ll learn to identify sources to meet your information needs You’ll get hands-on research experience What can you expect?

  5. Jimmy Wales on Wikipedia: “It is pretty good, but you have to be careful with it. It's good enough knowledge, depending on what your purpose is.” There are effective ways to use Wikipedia & Google

  6. wikiPros - Use it as a starting point - Look at the references & notes - Explore further readings wikiCons wikiTips

  7. Use quotes for phrases • Use Google Scholar for scholarly materials • Look at the site’s domain • Use the advanced search option

  8. Beginning your research • Identify the research need • Develop research question (if necessary) • Is it predefined or open ended? • Should be clear and concise • List all pieces of information you need • Brainstorm • Search terms • Using research question, develop a synonym list • Sources • List all possible places to look • Supplement throughout research process

  9. Beginning your research • Set parameters • Date needed • Amount & timeliness of info • Create realistic timeline • Begin your research • Break into manageable bits • Chunk related items together • Tackle small portions at a time • Maintain research log • Creates research trail • Allows you to find info later • Helps with citation

  10. Common Types of Research • Company research • Industry research • Domestic & foreign markets • Marketing data • Demographics • Financial research

  11. Sources of Business Info • Books • Periodicals, journals & trade pubs • Company web sites • SEC filings, financials, corporate governance disclosures, press releases • Federal, state & local data • Stock trading data • Research & market reports

  12. Sources of Business Info • Rankings & market share • Trade associations • Proprietary databases • Indexes, directories & annual pubs • Blogs, podcasts & social media • NGOs, international orgs

  13. Keys to remember • Begin by clearly articulating your research need(s) • Research planning saves time • Work with manageable chunks • Knowing general & specific sources gives you a starting point

  14. Thank you for attending. Jeff Graveline Mervyn H. Sterne Library jgraveli@uab.edu (205) 934-6364

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