The Information Broker's Handbook

Rugge and Glossbrenner examine all of the search and retrieval options used by today's successful information brokers - everything from conventional library research to online databases, special interest groups, forums, bulletin board systems, and document delivery services. Readers learn the techniques and skills necessary to conduct cost-effective online searches on the largest databases, while concentrating on methods that can be applied to any online system. The authors also address the all-important business end of information retrieval: establishing an office, purchasing hardware and software, marketing and selling information services, pricing and billing, and much more. And the appendices contain the most comprehensive available listing of resources, associations, trade shows, and software vendors, as well as sample forms and contracts that are included on a disk. In short, this volume provides aspiring information brokers with everything they need to get started, except the clients - and Rugge and Glossbrenner offer more than a few helpful tips for finding them as well.
Sue Rugge founded America's first informtion brokerage in 1971 and is widely regarded as one of the nation's leading authorities in the field. Best known for her seminars and a series of cassette tapes on breaking into the information brokering business, she is now president of the Rugge Group, which provides research services to corporations and independent professionals. The author of several computer books, Alfred Glossbrenner operates a shareware distribution business specializing in PC telecommunications software.