Guides: BMKT 161: Economic and Technological Research

Library Database Tips

All of the databases covered in the Library Workshop videos have economic information in the form of country, industry, and market reports, as well as consumer and demographic data. To find information on technology related to your topic, try adding "technology" as a search term when looking for news coverage or press releases in your industry.

Economic Research

"Economy: income, expenditures, and resources that affect the cost of running a business or a household." - Kerin, R., Edwards, G., Tibbo, G. (2005). Marketing: The core. McGraw-Hill Ryerson; Toronto. (p. 61).

ASK:

What is the current state of B.C. or Canada's economy? Inflationary or recessionary?
Is there evidence that consumers are spending more or less?
What might be happening to global economic conditions that might impact local economic conditions?

Select Resources

UNCTADstat
Comprehensive collection of data relevant for the analysis of world trade, investment and development.
This United Nations resource gathers together national and international data on trade and economics in over 190 countries. It includes "comprehensive statistical time series and indicators essential for the analysis of world trade, investment, international financial flows, and development". The table of contents outlining the range of reports and data available is a good starting point for using this resource.

UN Data
Another product of the United Nations, UNData provides figures and reports on a wide variety of socio-economic factors for countries around the world. A great place to look for PESTLE data, you can search by keyword or browse through the available information.
Includes country profiles and the ability to browse by data set, source (UN agency), and topic.
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Includes data on agriculture, crime, education, energy, industry, labour, national accounts, population and tourism.
CIA World Fact Book
The World Factbook provides information on the history, people and society, government, economy, energy, geography, communications, transportation, military, and transnational issues for 267 world entities.
OECD - Data
Find, compare and share the latest OECD data: charts, maps, tables and related publications
World Bank Open Data
Free and open access to world development data.

Economic Indicators

Economic factors heavily influence all industries and other facets of our lives.The major banks provide some free online analysis. Search Business Source Complete or CBCA Reference for country reports on Canada or other nations.

Technological Research

"Technology, a major environmental force, refers to inventions or innovations from applied science or engineering research." - Kerin, R., Edwards, G., Tibbo, G. (2005). Marketing: The core. McGraw-Hill Ryerson; Toronto. (p. 62)

ASK:

What technology is being developed in the business/product/service area that I am researching?
What other technology is in the market place that may impact the consumer and/or business/product/service I am researching?