There are different classification systems in use that help organize and measure industry activity.
Such as ISIC, SBI, NAICS and SIC codes. Dependent on which country you are researching,
you can use a system.
The NAICS (North American Industry Classification System) is gradually replacing the SIC (Standard Industrial Classification) system.
The ISIC (International Standard Industrial Classification of All Economic Activities is a United Nations industry classification system.
In The Netherlands we use the SBI-code (=Standaard Bedrijfsindeling).
Knowing the code for your industry will help you find reports, articles,
and other information on that industry.
Even though the codes are standardized, different resources will assign codes differently. Additionally, many companies can have multiple codes because of their various business segments. Be flexible and cautious when using codes to search, and always check multiple sources.
Note: Sometimes there isn't a perfect or obvious code.
Accompanying image from the Dutch Central Bureau of Statistics.
The information on this page is based on the University Pittsburgh Library Libguide on Industry Research Resources.
To look up codes by keyword, use the following sites.
If you already have a company but don't know what code(s) are associated with it, try the following databases.
If you only have the SIC code but the resource you are using only provides NAICS codes, you might want to try and convert your SIC code to the NAICS code. You can use the following documents to help.