You can collect valuable information and insights about your competition through reading your industry's trade magazines or newsletter. Visit bookstores to find new releases with pertinent information. You'll be surprised how mush useful information is at your fingertips. Join select organizations and get involved. Call and ask for their membership materials and packet.
Associations are a valuable resource for networking with other business people in the same industry.
When you're encountering a situation you're not sure how to respond to tap into other association members. Listen To Your Current Customers. Customer surveys don't need to be expensive or lengthy. Postcard surveys are cheap, quick and can be very effective. Offer a discount or incentive for returning the card promptly.