Another way to collect information is to read or search publications from the trade or industry you work in. Some of these magazines from different industries are Electrical World, Woodworker, Hairdressers International, and the Professional Medical Assistant.

     Trade publications often contain articles that troubleshoot problems. They also run stories about companies that are successful in solving a specific problem.

     Procedure manuals are another important source of information. Air Conditioning technicians and employees from other industries couldn’t possibly know how to repair every brand, so they refer to procedure manuals for help.

     Information can be obtained in additional ways:

• Use an employee suggestion box, and give a cash award for good ideas.
• Provide a courtesy card offering a free gift to customers who make good suggestions.
• Send a follow-up letter to customers asking for opinions.
• Ask teams of employees or managers to study a problem and make recommendations.