FASM 419 - Current Trends and Forecasting

Evaluate sources to ensure they're accurate, trustworthy, and appropriate for you research projects.

Be sure to consider:

Currency: When was the information created or published? Do you need more current information?

Content: Is the information accurate? Does it provide in-depth information or just a summary?

Viewpoint: How does publication date, publisher, or other factors affect viewpoint? How opinionated is the piece?

Relevance: Is the information important for your needs? Do you need a source to get ideas or to cite in your paper?

Official web presences for your selected company can be useful sources:

• Corporate website  -- find business facts, announcements, reports, etc.
• Web store -- analyze product offerings and how they are presented
• Social media - analyze how is the company engaging with its customers

However, be sure to review this information with a critical eye. 

Naturally companies want to present themselves as positively as possible, so will gloss over shortcomings or problems.

When reviewing company websites, consider:

• How factual is this information?
• What are the sources for their facts?
• Is the company legally obligated to provide this information?
• Who is the information intended for? (Customers, investors, etc.)
• What is the purpose or intent of this information? (To report, to advertise, etc.)
• What message is being conveyed?

External news articles and reports about your company can provide alternative viewpoints, which will help you develop a well-rounded analysis.