Factiva

Definition

Factiva is a comprehensive online database that provides access to a vast collection of news articles, business information, and multimedia from around the world. It serves as a powerful research tool, enabling users to search for and retrieve relevant content across various industries and topics, making it invaluable for journalists, researchers, and students alike.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Factiva aggregates content from thousands of sources, including newspapers, journals, and trade publications, providing a diverse range of perspectives.
2. Users can customize their searches using advanced filters such as date range, publication type, and keyword relevance to find the most pertinent information.
3. Factiva also offers tools for monitoring news trends and tracking specific topics over time, which can be useful for market research or competitive analysis.
4. The platform is widely used in academic institutions as well as by businesses to gather intelligence on industry developments and competitors.
5. Factiva includes features like email alerts and RSS feeds to keep users updated on the latest information related to their interests or research areas.

Review Questions

• How does Factiva enhance the research process for students and professionals compared to traditional research methods?
  • Factiva enhances the research process by providing access to a vast array of up-to-date news articles and business information all in one place. Unlike traditional methods that may require sifting through multiple sources individually, Factiva allows users to conduct comprehensive searches using specific criteria to filter results effectively. This saves time and increases the likelihood of finding relevant material quickly, making it an essential tool for anyone engaged in research.
• In what ways does Factiva's filtering capability impact the accuracy of research outcomes?
  • Factiva's filtering capabilities significantly impact the accuracy of research outcomes by enabling users to hone in on the most relevant articles based on their specific needs. By allowing searches to be narrowed down by factors such as publication date, source type, and keywords, researchers can avoid irrelevant results that might cloud their findings. This targeted approach not only streamlines the research process but also increases confidence in the accuracy of the information retrieved.
• Evaluate the role of Factiva in shaping journalistic practices and its implications for how news is consumed today.
  • Factiva plays a crucial role in shaping journalistic practices by providing journalists with immediate access to a wealth of global news sources, enabling them to stay informed on current events across various sectors. This immediacy allows journalists to produce timely reports and analyses that reflect ongoing developments. However, this reliance on aggregated news sources also raises questions about media diversity and bias in news consumption today, as journalists might prioritize widely available content over original reporting from less prominent sources.

Related terms

Database: A structured collection of data that can be easily accessed, managed, and updated, often used to store and retrieve information efficiently.

News Aggregator: A service that collects and displays news articles from various sources, allowing users to view a wide range of information on specific topics.

Search Engine: A program that searches the internet for specific keywords or phrases and returns relevant results, helping users find information quickly.