Computer Information Systems & Business Analytics

Business data is the "raw material" that you will use in your research. Business data is a collection of information about a company or industry and it's operations including consumer data, accounting records, market research, etc.  

Data is the foundational element that can be processed and analyzed to produce evidence, support research, and help in forming conclusions. Data itself typically consists of raw numbers, text, or other measurable inputs before being processed into more complex forms like statistics, visualizations, or conclusions. While not data themselves, ideas and conclusions are often based on data analysis and interpretation.

To learn more about data basics visit the Getting Started with Data Guide.

One of the largest sources of business data provided by JMU Libraries is through Wharton Research Data Services (WRDS). WRDS is a data repository that hosts a broad collection of data to facilitate access to datasets offered by individual vendors.

Which WRDS datasets does JMU subscribe to?

JMU subscribes to datasets from multiple vendors including:

• Compustat
• CRSP
• TAQ
• Eventus
• MSCI
• ISS

For a complete list of WRDS datasets JMU subscribes to visit Data Dashboard on your homepage (login required) and select Subscribed under the Subscription filter on the right-hand side of the screen to view datasets you have access to through JMU.

What if JMU doesn't subscribe to the data I need?

As per the Libraries Collections Policy, JMU Libraries prioritize our limited funding to support the purchase of materials that provide the widest curricular application and support. Due to the niche interest and high cost of WRDS datasets, JMU Libraries is unable to fund the purchase of new WRDS datasets at this time.

Where can I get help with running queries in WRDS?

Due to the specialized knowledge required to run queries in WRDS, JMU Libraries is unable to provide support in running queries or conducting data analysis. For help, please visit WRDS support platform.

Bloomberg Terminals enable financial professionals to access Bloomberg Professional Services to monitor and analyze real-time financial market data. The terminals provide news, price quotes, and messaging via a secure network. Most large financial firms have subscriptions to Bloomberg Professional Services.

JMU students and faculty have access to Bloomberg Terminals in the Gaglioti Capital Markets Lab in Hartman Hall. 

Any JMU student wishing to gain access to the Gaglioti Lab will be required to complete specific training and pass the lab quiz. For further information, please self-enroll to the department Canvas site at https://canvas.jmu.edu/enroll/EYYWWR

JMU's business librarians do not have access to the local Bloomberg Terminals and can't assist with searching or accessing information in them. 

JMU Libraries also subscribes to other business datasets including:

GIS Data

JMU Libraries subscribes to two tools that can be used to create custom maps for presentations or reports. 

Is it true that I can access ArcGIS through JMU?

Yes. The College of Integrated Science and Engineering at JMU subscribes to ArcGIS & ESRI and makes it available to JMU students and faculty. 

Note: The Libraries doesn't provide technical support or instruction on using ArcGIS. Send questions to Chrissy Willow Rothgeb at cise-IT@jmu.edu.

None of these data sources have the information I need. How can I request a dataset be purchased?

Contact your liaison librarian to see whether the data you want can be licensed for campus-wide use.