You have an idea for a new product or service.  You want to start a business that combines your passion with your education.  You need to develop a marketing plan for a company.  In each of these instances you need to research the industry. 

Business owners must understand the industries in which they operate to ensure success. The financial health of a business is usually a reflection of the health of the industry; therefore, by conducting an industry analysis, business owners can create a strategy that's more likely to help the business grow and succeed.  Likewise, if you are interested in an industry and want to do an industry analysis, this is the place to be.

This guide leads you through the steps of industry research and provides links to online sources of information and titles and call numbers for print sources.

If, after doing an industry analysis, you decide to proceed with starting a business in Washington State review the Business and Nonprofit Organizations page at the University of Washington Law School Library site.  You will also find links to information on starting a business in Washington State, changing business status, growing a business, licenses & permits, hiring & managing employees, taxes, doing business with the state, and finding laws & regulations.

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