As a business owner, it’s crucial to make informed decisions for your operation. This means conducting research to stay current on the latest industry practices, technology and new business opportunities. However, the quality of information available can vary and not all research is equally rigorous or reliable. A recent study by the Central Statistics Office (CSO) found that 62% of the information on the internet is unreliable. This alarming number requires us all to be especially discerning when seeking information.
Follow these five tips to find trustworthy sources when researching for your operation.
- Start with a straightforward question: What do you want to learn from your research? A concise question can focus your search, ensuring better results.Pro Tip: Online search engines allow access to a lot of information and can become quickly overwhelming. Using quotation marks around specific keywords will narrow your search to online sites that include the keyword. You can specify your desired domain type to narrow your search further. For example, instead of searching New Agricultural Technology, type: New “Agricultural Technology” .edu.
- Ensure your sources are credible. Look for aspects that point to credibility, such as the author's credentials, publication's history and methodology used.Pro Tip: Many researchers have websites where they regularly share their work and other related research. This can be an excellent way to learn about the latest research in your field of interest.
- Review the publication date. Agriculture is a complex and rapidly evolving business; information can quickly become outdated. A good guideline is to use sources published in the last ten years.
- Critically assess the information. Just because something is published doesn't mean it is true. Be sure to evaluate the evidence and ask yourself if it makes sense.
- Be aware of bias. Does the author have any vested interest in the information? Is the information factual or opinion-based? Be sure to review multiple sources with different perspectives if articles are opinion-based.
- A great place to start your search is at any of the trusted resources below, which provide timely and reliable business information:? Education and resources pages on AgWestFC.com? University Extension offices? Industry trade groups? Agriculture and industry advocacy organizations
By following these tips, you can conduct research that provides trustworthy information to help you make better decisions for your business.
Find more ag-focused educational resources on AgWestFC.com. Industry-leading programs and business resources are available here and the AgWest Business Management Center also hosts virtual and in-person events to support business owners in agriculture. Current resource topics include:
- Macroeconomic and geopolitical updates
- Strategic and family business succession planning
- Region- and industry-specific weather forecasts
- Commodity-specific market outlooks
- Business and risk management
Learn more and subscribe at AgWestFC.com.
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