Competitive Intelligence: Bringing Together Resources and Techniques
Jinfo Blog

By Yulia Aspinall

Abstract

Actionable insights come from analysing competitor and industry data. Answering the "so what?" question requires not just access to relevant resources, but also the selection of the right analytical tool.  In this FreePint Report on Competitive Intelligence, we bring you reviews and articles on both areas - competitive intelligence resources and analytical approaches and techniques.

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Actionable insights come from analysing competitor and industry data. Answering the "so what?" question requires not just access to relevant resources, but also the selection of the right analytical tool.  In this FreePint Report on Competitive Intelligence, we bring you reviews and articles on both areas - competitive intelligence resources and analytical approaches and techniques.

As many information professionals know, finding accurate and reliable data on privately held companies is no easy task. For that reason, new resources covering financial, M&A, private equity, venture capital and investor information on private companies will capture the attention of many researchers.  The private equity and venture capital industries are information intensive, and data are typically available on a subscription basis. Several publishers and industry associations also provide market information for free.  We share with readers what is available from both subscription and free sources, as well as social networking sites.

A range of other industry-specific resources are also reviewed, such as the Northern Light Discovery Portal - which provides robust searchable access to biomedical conference proceedings - and the overview of biopharmaceutical resources online, which may be a good starting point for newcomers. At the other end of the spectrum from healthcare, ‘Intelligence in transportation’ is another example of an industry -specific overview on insights and opportunities.

All information professionals know of the importance of Web 2.0 and especially social media, but for intelligence analysts they have become a “virtual goldmine”.  This issue’s article on social media mining should be compulsory reading for every CI professional.  The collection of both familiar and lesser-known websites mentioned in the article should provide something of value for all information professionals, regardless of experience.

Competitive intelligence professionals will also be interested to learn about new developments from established information providers – for example, services such as tailored alerts with customised content can be now delivered to mobile devices (InfoArmy).  Customisation, visualisation and delivery to mobile devices appear to be current buzzwords in the highly competitive world of CI provision.

Reviews dedicated to providers of patent information (Thomson Innovation), company information (Bureau van Dijk) and market reports (Profound) provide readers with step by step guides through the key features and new highlights.

Data and information analysis are essential elements of the competitive intelligence cycle. In this issue readers will also find several practical examples of analytical approaches and techniques, from win/loss analysis application to management of internal and external content.

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