Company Research: Websites, Rankings and Organizations

Since most companies manage their primary sources, you may need to consider alternative perspectives from a variety of stakeholders.   Here are some suggestions

• Search for articles on the company in the business press
• Shareholder issues often generate articles in new sources
• Industry reports often present competitive information
• Certain companies attract activists who argue for and against company activities, products, etc.
• Lawsuits can often be followed through the media and in some instances will result in publsihed court cases

Federal agencies often provide public information on their enforcement actions.

This list is not comprehensive but is intended to illustrate the types of sources available for locating information on companies. Some of these organizations may have a particular cause or agenda.

• American Customer Satisfaction Index
• ClickZ  (What are current social marketing strategies for some key companies?)
• CorpWatch
• Sustainability f(rom Green America)
• Awards: Design Excellence, Malcolm Baldridge
• Polls: Harris Interactive

There are many lists of companies prepared by business publications and special interest organizations.