I2 Find and provide business information

Establish exactly what information the client needs, and how much

Find possible sources of information and judge each for reliability, currency and relevance, giving priority to authoritative sources

Search for and collect information efficiently, using appropriate methods and tools, including online databases and search

Use AI and other digital tools to help find and summarise information where appropriate, and check the results against reliable sources

Analyse and interpret the information accurately and draw suitable conclusions

Identify gaps, conflicting information or unexpected results, and deal with them

Present the information clearly, in a form that suits the client and their needs

Acknowledge sources, and respect copyright and licensing terms

Protect confidential information, and comply with relevant legislation, codes of practice and ethical requirements

Record the information provided and the sources used

The main sources of business information and their strengths and weaknesses, including official statistics, government and regulatory guidance, market research, company information, local information, business directories and specialist publications

Where to find authoritative information on the legislation and regulation affecting businesses (for example employment, health and safety, tax, environmental protection, intellectual property, data protection and international trade)

Search techniques, and how to use online databases and information systems effectively

How to judge the quality, currency and reliability of information, including online and AI-generated content

How to analyse and summarise information, including simple data

How to present different types of business information clearly for different audiences

Copyright, licensing and how to acknowledge sources

The confidentiality and data protection requirements that apply to research