The way to do this is to ask yourself what organizations or individuals are in business to monitor the company or the industry. Trade Associations Trade and professional associations can save you much time and energy in your company research efforts. When you consider associations as sources of information about companies, you need to think expansively. If your past experiences with associations as information sources have been good, you know what a wealth of facts and insights they can provide. If your efforts have not been successful, don't despair.
Every association is different, and some are great resources for company information.
The following list will acquaint you with the benefits that associations should be able to offer you. Not all items and services will be available from each association, but you should think positively and ask for any that would be helpful to you. General information about the industry of the company you are investigating. Specific information about how the company fits into the industry, including size ranking and status. Leads to individuals in the trade press who might be good information sources.