Recognizing the vital role of the internet in my life, I’ve found it to be an invaluable tool. As a lifelong learner, it has opened opportunities and rabbit holes for me to explore and learn, especially when facing unfamiliar challenges. This was definitely true last week.
Last week, I assisted a client in navigating the complex government contract process. This involved figuring out the SAM(System for Award Management) system and obtaining a CAGE (Commercial and Government Entity) number – both are essential components for contract bidding and doing business with the government. It involved a maze of acronyms and confusion. However, with some basic research and tenacity, we successfully navigated through it.
Now, let’s shift the focus to you.
Here are some practical tips for researching and solving your business questions, whether they involve government contracts, new software, or any other topic.
I always kick off my research with a Google search to get an initial sense of popular hits and available resources. While Google is a valuable starting point, navigating it can be a bit challenging. I find myself sifting through different websites to see if my specific question is addressed.
Here’s my approach: I begin with a focused question on how to answer or resolve a particular issue. Taking the example of the CAGE number, I might start with a question, “What are the steps to apply for and acquire a CAGE number from the US government?”
YouTube
YouTube, being the second-largest search engine after Google, is a treasure trove of information, but navigating it can be a bit challenging.
I’ve found that asking very specific questions and seeking small pieces of information works best.
When evaluating videos for usefulness, I prefer to scroll through frames and watch the video at 2x speed. This approach allows me to quickly gauge if the content is relevant and useful for my inquiry before committing to the entire video.
ChatGPT
ChatGPT, one of the many AI tools, provides a unique research experience. When you ask questions, it pulls together and summarizes information from its extensive database, presenting you with an overview of the topic.
Unlike Google or Youtube, you have a summary of information vs scanning multiple websites.
Public Libraries
Your local library has a wealth of business-related information, including industry research and business planning. I’ve personally used my local library for access Linkedin Learning (formally Lynda) for free and to perform industry research.
Industry-Specific Forums
Engage in forums related to your industry to tap into collective knowledge and experiences. Platforms like Reddit or industry-specific forums can be gold mines for practical insights.
Last week, as I delved into the government requirements for CAGE codes and the process of setting up a company as a government supplier, I stumbled upon a fantastic YouTube channel.
This channel walked me through each screen, detailing what to expect and providing guidance on filling in the necessary information. In just one afternoon, with the help of the video, I not only discovered answers but also gained valuable insights into the purpose of these codes and the complexities surrounding government contract awards.
