Best of the ISP-Lists

Mining Marketing Info

Need information about demographics in possible new markets? ISPs share their techniques.

[November 22, 1999]

In a thread on ISP-Marketing in November 1999, TS wrote:

"As we get ready to enter new markets I am trying to find some demographic information: numbers of businesses in certain areas, numbers and location of Bell CO's, and any other information that might be of interest. I know about Chambers of Commerce, but I want some other info as well. Suggestions?"

The list did have some suggestions, such as this rather old-fashioned research option:

[BS said] "As simplistic as this may sound, I'd recommend visiting your local library. Somewhere in their reference center what you are after is certain to be found—and a whole lot more. In my experience, librarians just love a challenge like this, so you probably won't have to find all this on your own."

Others offered other, more high-tech solutions.

[DS had a number of suggestions] "Each state has its own business and industry association. Most probably have a Web site. The associations have huge memberships that the Chambers of Commerce don't have. The organizations usually will sell member lists, either in book form or in a database on a CD ROM. Manufacturer's News Inc. sells databases for all the states.

"As for the locations of the Bell COs, go to the Web site of your local Bell telco. Even if they haven't published this information, you probably can find appropriate contact information on the site that will cut your research time."

One respondent took an opportunity to promote his product.

[CM wrote] "I can provide you with that type of information. My company partners with ISP's to give them demographics. Please check us out at www.foveon.com and to learn more, you can e-mail me offline at cmountjoy@foveon.com.

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