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

2. Mechanics of the Program 8 fifty-minute sessions Must complete 6 of 8 sessions Short exercises turned in after sessions Offered during Fall & Spring semesters

3. 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?

4. © NBC

5. True or False?

6. © Microsoft Corp.

7. Have you ever felt this way?

8. There are effective ways to use Wikipedia & Google 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.”

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

10. Use quotes for phrases Search for a company using ticker symbol Use synonyms & exclude noise words Use Boolean connectors (AND, OR) Look at the site’s domain Use the advanced search option

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

13. 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

14. Common Types of Research Company research Industry research Domestic & foreign markets Marketing data Demographics Legal research

15. 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

16. Sources of Business Info Rankings & market share Trade associations Databases Indexes, directories & annual pubs Blogs, podcasts & social media NGOs, international orgs

17. 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

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