Library Guides: MET 486: Mechanical Engineering Technology Project Design: Finding Industry, Market, and Company Data

Finding Industry, Market, Company, & Product Data

Before writing a proposal, it's essential to understand the industry, and the options that are already available in the market. Here are some top resources to explore:

IBISWorld
Easy-to-use database for finding industry reports.
IBISWorld provides over 700 full-text industry reports, 700 US industry risk rating reports, and information on over 8000 Publicly Traded US Companies as well as hundreds of economic and demographic profiles. Subscription includes access to the US Industry State Reports module.
Mintel
Market forecasts and reports on consumer attitudes. In addition to the search box at the top of the page, you can read click on "Category Overview" and browse by sector (such as "Automotive" or "Technology") or by theme (such as "Convenience").
Provides access to two products. Mintel Academic publishes 600 market research reports each year for the U.S. and European consumer markets. Reports analyze market drivers, trends, market forecasts, market segmentations, demographics, and consumer attitudes and purchasing behaviors. The Trends module in Mintel Academic tracks cutting edge trends and shifts in consumer behavior. Mintel Market Sizes provides market size, market share and segmentation data for global consumer packaged goods industries. No walk-ins allowed.

Engineering Cost, Parts, and Suppliers Subject Guide
Links to a variety of free web sites and reference books available through Penn State libraries.

Other Resources

The library has many other sources of information for industries, markets, and companies. To find them, check these guides:

Finance
by Lauren Reiter Last Updated Jun 24, 2025 976 views this year
Marketing
by Katie O'Hara-Krebs Last Updated Jun 24, 2025 1453 views this year
Company Information
by Lauren Reiter Last Updated Jun 24, 2025 1022 views this year
Industry Information
by Lauren Reiter Last Updated Jun 24, 2025 594 views this year