Collecting and analyzing public information in publications is often referred to as "data analysis".

Data analysis covers a wide range, including the use of various potential sources, such as libraries, trade associations, publications of research institutions and government publications.

At first, we should first collect data extensively and then screen out valuable parts for detailed analysis.

Government publications are commonly used sources. Relatively speaking, the source is relatively easy to get.

But experience has proved that this is not very useful for small businesses, because government statistics are often classified according to a set of standards. It is difficult to see consumers' needs and potential market from this. However, since they can be freely checked in public libraries, they can be used as the starting point for further research.

In addition, libraries of some colleges and universities are also open to the public. This is also a source.

If colleges and universities in the area have majors in economics or business, this is also a good source of information.

In almost every industry, there are a large number of associations, and this is also a useful source of information, because most of the members are rich in their own industry.

Some associations have their own information consulting centers, and some also publish the industry regularly, and publish special reports from various professional departments.

However, there are too many such organizations, and it is also a problem to find out, so it is better to know in advance what services they undertake and how much service fees they need.

Trade magazines are valuable sources of information.

It often contains articles about market forecasts, competitors and customers' needs, new product introductions, and customer evaluation of products.

In addition, the advertisement will provide background information about competitive products and sales volume, and classify the products and competitors.

These important articles and advertisements should be accumulated, for it is useless to remember only a large number of jumble magazine names.

When data are sorted and sorted out, the relevant important contents can be found from the finished materials when relevant information is needed.