Information Services and Library: Social Media: Home

Search tips

Search tips:

In our databases content on social media may be classified under media, communications or technology sectors

Company databases may use SIC codes or NAIC codes and in the field of finance the GICS codes may be used (or an ICB for the UK). More information.

Company research

Researching a company in this sector? Take a look at our guide to company research

Learn about the social media industry

Forrester	Our primary source for research on all topics related to technology including Social Media. There are numerous reports on this topic. Please note you must pre-register for access to Forrester.
IBISWorld	Provides detailed market research reports for UK, US, China and (limited) global. Many of the reports on different sectors (especially PR, Marketing and Comm's) mention social media and there is a report on Social Networking in China.
Statista	We currently have a trial subscription until the end of 2018. Has good statistical and report coverage for retail and FMCG including consumer electronics.
Mergent Online	For Analysts' research on quoted companies and their markets go to the Investext tab.
Technavio	Includes reports covering a number of different aspects of social media markets and the markets of related technologies.
Proquest ABI Inform	A number of relevant reports by publishers such as Plunkett, First Research and Just-Food. Try searching for "social media" then limit your results to show only Source Type = reports, Document type= industry reports and set your date range for the last 2 years.
Marketline Advantage	Industry and company profiles, also has some case-study style reports e.g. one on Facebook's acquisition of Whatsapp.
Bloomberg Finance Zone only	Go to > Function <BI> and select Communications> Internet. It includes cost analysis and market share information for major internet and social media firms (including some based in China) Or use the function <RES>.

**Web sources**
Pew Research Pew Research (Internet, Science and Tech) produces regular reports on Social Media and various related topics e.g mobile devices, gaming, privacy etc..	Social Media Examiner SocialMedia Examiner site has a number of reports and articles (some for free) looking at current use of social media by marketers and their future plans.
Online Nation 2021 report from Ofcom (UK communications industries regulator) looking at use of digital media including the use of social media.	WeAreSocial / Hootsuite 2022 Global digital report looks at use of digital media in particular social media globally. Some regional reports also available.

News and keeping up to date

Science Direct	Covers business and sci/tech. Useful for academic research on the technology behind and use of social media.
Factiva	Our global news database with news wires, newspapers, websites and trade and professional titles. Try limiting your search to sources relevant to this industry or by using Social Media in the subject index.
FT.Com	Prior registration required. Click here to register. (It is included when searching Factiva)
Economist	Full personalised access to the Economist. Must register first using LBS email address
Emerald ManagementXtra	Practitioner journals from a wide range of fields including media and marketing that have articles on Social Media