by Randy Bunney
Contributing Editor, Internet Prospector

CONTENTS:

INTRODUCTION

LOCATOR TOOLS

First, The Name. Includes search-engine strategies and tips.

BACKGROUND TOOLS

OK. You've located where in the world your subject is. Now use your search engine to dig deeper.

CAPACITY TOOLS

Here is the magic mountain of development research: wealth analysis and capacity to give. Includes pointers to business valuation sites. 

Introduction

The following pages offer strategies for putting search engines to work for you, tricks-of-the-trade for managing Web technology and selected WWW sites that will start you on your way to becoming a seasoned Internet miner. Ultimately, the fun and challenge of Internet research is for you to build your own set of WWW hot links, customized for your particular needs and constituency. Remember the people focus. Ask yourself what traditional printed, interview or online sources you would use to begin building a profile. Look for similar information categories on the Net or even directories by the same name. Be creative in your quest. And dig deep.

Two disclaimers before we start:

• Despite the Web's vastness, it presently has limited application in identifying viable new prospects. Fee-based online databases such as LEXIS or DIALOG or screening your internal donor database are still your best bets.
• Buyer beware on the Web. It is up to you as the information professional to evaluate the information source and, if necessary, confirm facts retrieved online.

Help us build upon this document. Comments , corrections, additions welcome.

FORWARD to Locator Tools
FORWARD to Background Tools
FORWARD to Capacity Tools