Problem:
When we talk about researching a client there are certain approaches that valid. The following is not meant to be an all encompassing list, but it is a good start.
Traditional Research: Well as we all know that the internet is a great tool to research a company and allows you to find out a lot of information quickly. The bad part about the internet is that there is information overload. As a student that is doing research in every class I really do not believe that I need to talk to you about this particular topic.
Trade Publications: These are a great source of information on the company and the industry. This is especially true when the industry is so specialized. For example Oil and Gas, Cement, Aircraft manufacturing, etc...
SEC research: For public companies the SEC has a data base commonly known as EDGAR that houses all the reports, press releases and financial information that a public company is required to publish. This site is available at www.sec.gov. I would highly recommend that you look at this information for a company that you are interested in.
AICPA: American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. The AICPA has a massive amount of information about professional literature that could affect special industries or provide insights in certain applications in the accounting field.
INSURANCE BROKERS: Insurance brokers such as AON are a great source of information as they have stats for every possible business and industry. While the broker may not specifically offer inside information on the company itself, they will provide benchmarking information that would help.
What are your views on these sources?