In this section we have gathered some of the most popular information sources, such as trade journals, magazines, blogs, and association websites. Industry information is always changing. For the latest news, current issues and popular opinions, try following one or more of these sources. In addition, interacting with the websites that provide this information through commenting and asking questions may also provide you with more information.
Associations
Trade associations often publish free industry newsletters that are excellent sources of information for your business plan. Such newsletters often have articles that cover in-depth topics on business management, manufacturing practices, how-tos, and current industry news.
Retail Council of Canada | The RCC represents independent, regional, national mass and specialty retail business and online merchants in general merchandise, drug and grocery. The Retail Resources page provides many helpful webinars, industry research, and articles.
Electronics Products Stewardship Canada | EPSC represents the interests of electronics manufacturers for innovation in enhanced end of life solutions for electronics products in Canada.
U.S. Based Associations
Consumer Technology Associations | This trade association represents the US consumer technology industry. Members can access market research, industry promotion, information on tech research, and invitations to events throughout the year. While some features are for members only, CTA has many past webinars available to view for free.
TIP: Use ASAE Gateway to Associations Directory to search for an association by name, interest area, or international geographic location (including Canada and BC). You can also search using a combination of various fields.
Magazines & Trade Journals
Trade journals (often called magazines or trade publications) can be very useful in helping you find current articles relating to business research. Contact your local research library to determine which trade journal subscriptions they have. There are also free trade publications that you can access online.
IEEE Consumer Electronics Magazine | The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) is a technical professional organization for the advancement of technology. The magazine typically publishes 6 issues per year. For more information, take a look at IEEE Access which is an open access journal of IEEE.
PCMag | PCMag was a print magazine from 1982 to 2009 but has now moved completely to an online format. The site reviews the latest technology and services.
TWICE | TWICE stands for This Week in Consumer Electronics and focuses on the needs of the technology and consumer electronics industries. Twice publishes more than 12 times a year through various online platforms such as the website, newsletters, events, videos and webinars.
Consumer Reports | Published monthly Consumer Reports provides credible information for consumers to make informed decisions. The site maintains a section on product reviews.
TIP: Try searching Ulrichs Periodical Directory to develop a list of important trade publications in your industry.
Consultant & Other Websites
MarketWatch - Industry Analyzer | The Industries section contains current data on Dow Jones Industry Sectors. Aggregate data as well as company-specific data is available.
PriceWaterhouse Coopers Canada (PwC) | Global consultancy firm that produces reports on the state of various industries.
Firsthand | A free source of industry information. Use the Industry Profiles to research growing industries and best industries by major, and Company Rankings and Profiles to find news, company information, and industry-specific sample professions. Basic monthly membership is free and offers access to blogs, discussion forums, and job listings.
TIP: As with all sources, news articles and blogs should be carefully evaluated. For information on how to evaluate your information, watch video tutorial Module Five: Using Information Responsibly.