Experts

consultants

expert witnesses

security (stock) analysts

Academics and Academic Resources

faculty

regular publications, special and onetime studies

industry research centers and specialized libraries

teaching materials and case studies

The specialized interests all collect and provide data for a reason: to advance what they each see as their own best interests, or the best interests of those that they represent.

Advocacy groups of all types have an "ax to grind." That is typically framed as the advancement of the public good, as that group defines it. In doing this, they may well be spending significant time and funds to collect data, publish reports, bring lawsuits, or test products and services, all of which may be a source of raw data for you.

Experts includes everyone from consultants to expert witnesses and from clinical laboratories to security analysts. Their work reflects a common goal: to advance the individual's career, whether it is by obtaining assignments, helping an employer sell stock, or some other means. But each is providing data for a particular audience, which can color, not only how they say things, but what they say and do not say.