Economics is simply the study of human efforts to fulfill wants and needs. Microeconomics is the study of economic decisions individuals, households and businesses make. Macroeconomics is the study of the overall functioning of an economy.

Economics is essential in a variety of fields, including environmental studies, financial planning and natural resources management to name a few. Understanding the relationships between supply and demand is increasingly difficult in a world dominated by globalization.

The following resources will help you find the economics information you need:

1. Use economics software to create models from financial data.

2. Hire an economics consultant to get the short-term help your company requires.

3. Fill your job opening in economics using an online employment service.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Utilize economics software to better understand financial markets

Computer modeling is a powerful tool in the field of economics. Software packages can give you insight into future scenarios based on historical data.

I recommend: Adaptive Modeler is an agent-based modeling software package. It generates price forecasts and trading signals for a variety of securities. Download a free evaluation version to try it out. Betahat allows you to estimate, test and simulate econometric models. Download a demonstration version to try it before purchasing the software.

Partner with an economics consultant to help you with your analysis project

A professional economics provider can assist you with financial analysis, provide expert testimony or give you policy advice. Consulting firms offer a range of services and will give you the expertise your project needs.

I recommend: NERA offers economic analysis, expert testimony, advice and policy recommendations. Download the company's newsletter to find out more about the services it provides. FTI Consulting provides economic analysis issues for legal and regulatory meetings, strategic decisions and public policy debates. Use the company's advanced search to find economics professionals by location, expertise and/or industry.

List your economics job on an online site to reach job seekers

Finding a good economist is vital to your business success. Posting your job opening at sites on the Internet will allow you to reach an international pool of applicants to get the best employee.

I recommend: JOE is a job listing service provided by the American Economic Association. Prices for ads vary by the number of words they contain. EconCareers allows you to post economics jobs or search resumes for a fee. A discount is given to employers who post multiple jobs.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If your business uses economics regularly, consider subscribing to a professional economics journal. Understanding current trends in economic theory will give you an edge over the competition. Journal articles can also help you to find research partners.