Some of the more popular directories have previously become available as commercial databases. The humble phone book is certainly available. Another option is to reach for phone numbers on CD-Rom. Directories may also be used to determine what the companies produce and sell. The Kompass Directories index manufacterers by product.
Directories have other innovative uses too.
Business - Annual Reports . Many newswires contain copious amounts of information about companies - and describe products, mergers, fiascos. Prominent newspapers specialize in covering business. This is described in more detail in our Newswires and News Databases article. News is generated locally, then distributed globally through the newswires.