At the core of all successful business decisions is an underlying strategy based on solid market research, accurate data, and current information. Printing business executives and managers who have learned to fortify their companies' business plans and strategies with a consistent flow of useful and compelling business data will be much better positioned to unlock growth potential and protect against sales declines.

Although homing in on the pieces of information that should be compiled and analyzed can seem like a daunting task, it doesn’t have to be that way. At the most basic level, making the best business decisions requires managers to study their own operations, their customers' markets, the competitive landscape, and available statistics.

When it comes to compiling useful information, your own organization is a great place to start. Take a close look at your company to assess the types of customers and markets you're currently serving, how you've grown with them over the years, and the profitability of your existing offerings. Ask yourself the following questions: