You will use a variety of databases to gather background information for consumer analysis, industry trends, etc. and more specific database to can help with market segmentation reports.
For example: You want to open up a fast-food franchise and need to understand if this is a sound investment and if there is potential to make a profit. You then need to determine who will be your target demographics, figure out their locations, and understand their related behaviors to the industry.
Specialized Business Databases
Business Articles, Company Information and Business News
Business Databases (EBSCO) – an essential research database for peer-reviewed, full-text business journals.
Industry Research
IBISWorld – provides thoroughly researched, accurate, current business information, and expert analysis regarding market conditions, forecasts, supply chain, and competitor activity in the industry
Mergent Intellect - an incredibly powerful database for companies, industry and more.***
Marketing Research
ABI Inform (Proquest) - This database includes in-depth coverage of companies, products, executives, trends and other topics.
Academic OneFile - Marketing (Gale) - This topic page within Academic OneFile focuses on marketing but covers multiple topics across Business.
Small Business
Small Business Reference Center is a great starting point on different business types and business related issues that impact the small business owner or entrepreneur!
Small Business Reference Center (EBSCO) – offers exclusive full text for many top consumer small business reference books, as well as tools to address many small business topics and includes business videos, a help and advice section and details on how to create business plans