I use the database, Mergent Intellect, to find basic company information.
To make my research easier, I look for these specific pieces of information:
1. Is this a publicly traded company? (easier to research than a private company)
2. Is this company a subsidiary? (financial information is often reported under the parent company)
3. What is the company's ticker symbol? (searching by ticker symbol is often more efficient & accurate)
4. In which industry does this company operate? (knowing the industry helps to research competitors)
5. What is the NAICS code and SIC code for the industry? (searching by a NAICS/SIC code is often more efficient & accurate)
When possible, search by the company's ticker symbol.
It is often a quicker and more accurate way to find company information.