- ‘Do you mean that you think you can find out the answer to it?’ said the March Hare. ‘Exactly so,’ said Alice.
It’s all about using the easy way. And the easy way is sometimes not the one that immediately occurs to you.
Several of my posts have described techniques for finding information in databases that are not reached by search engines. The average searcher’s lack of understanding about this has become even more clear to me as I field requests for research services.
Most people assume that to find all of the realtors in Sacramento, or all of the hotel supply businesses in Illinois, the best method is to simply search on Google for those terms. None of them seem to have consulted a directory of any sort.
Directories: Great Tools!
Just what is a directory? The dictionary defines a directory as a book containing an alphabetical index of the names and addresses of persons in a city, district, organization, or of a particular category of people. Obviously, someone else has done all the work for you. What could be better than that?
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This is where librarians come in—as I have often said they would. They know who collects information and if they are reliable. They know what information is readily found and where to find it.
A quick call to the library’s reference desk may save you a lot of time. (What’s the worst that could happen?) Remember—the only reason that the reference librarian is there is to help you!
Some libraries and reference librarians specialize in business; it is a good idea to get to know them. ( Some very valuable leased databases can only be accessed on a computer in the library building—Westlaw and PubWest on U.S. Patents )—for example.
One readily available resource—whether on paper or online—are directories put together by associations. These generally fall into several categories: membership, resources (needed by the particular industry), and documents used in that industry. They can include technical specs and standards, regulations, and publications. Occasionally you will find that these information tools are only accessible to association members. Depending on the importance of your research project, you may find it is worth while to join.
These directories are a great resource for finding company contact information for firms in the industry and firms serving the industry. For example, I recently found an extensive directory of firms offering services and products to the restaurant industry on the California Restaurant Association website. ( Again, this was for a client who wanted me to search Google for the information. ) Someone else had already done the work!
Remember that industry associations are likely to have libraries too—or at least an industry information person. Call them to find out what other information is available and where to get it.
Sometimes the amount of information on a topic is so enormous as to be overwhelming; then a hardbound directory might help you get your bearings. There are lots of business directories still found on library shelves. Take the time to look through the business section of the reference shelves before you tackle your next big project.