Super Searchers on Competitive Intelligence: The Online and Offline Secrets of Top CI Researchers (Super Searchers series)

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Summary: Super Searchers on Competitive Intelligence: The Online and
Review: Competitive intelligence (CI) is the disciplined use of intelligence, first developed in the government arena, which has been adapted for use in the private sector. Carr reports findings from 15 CI experts she interviewed for this book. Their discussions cover all major aspects of the CI process, including resources, models, analytical techniques, practical tips and strategies, seminars and literature for ongoing learning, and pitfalls to avoid. Written for both the novice and experienced CI professional. Carr is principal of a private American research group. Annotation

Rating:
Summary: Super Searchers - Competitive Intelligence
Review: In this book, Margaret (Peggy) Carr interviewed 17 well-known CI researchers and looked into the process of how they tackle CI projects. Each researcher revealed many of the tactics used in their work. At the end of each chapter, there is a Super Searcher Power Tips section, recapping the highlights of the interview. Even as an experienced researcher (and editor of The CyberSkeptic's Guide to Internet Research) I was able to learn a lot from this book.

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Summary: Thought provoking.
Review: This book makes the case for having a CI function within a company very well. It also outlines major CI approaches used and shows how CI is being used in different markets by a broad range of practitioners. The interviews are very enlightening, and many of the techniques can be used by other disciplines. My interest is using CI methods and processes to keep up to date with technology risks and opportunities. This book helps. The accounts of the interviews are great.

The one thing that was very irritating about this book: to say that "intelligence operations" are new to companies. CI may be a new discipline, but using intelligence methods in business is not new (J P Morgan and the other industrial magnates of his time would be turning in their graves! They used intelligence operations in the markets that would make the CIA blush). Within the US, industrial espionage probably has a longer history than military intelligence. The OSS, forerunner of the CIA was not formed until world war two. The secret service dates from the 1860's. During the civil war the Federal Government had to use Pinkerton's ......

This is a minor detraction from a great book that is very useful.