Overview
Dun & Bradstreet (D&B) is an American company that leverages its comprehensive collection of commercial data to offer a variety of business intelligence services. Founded in 1841, Dun & Bradstreet provides updates on over 300 million business records worldwide and enables its customers to use data and insights to improve business performance. The company compiles its data through direct contact with commercial firms and by soliciting information from the firms’ creditors. This compiled information is published and available to subscribers in the form of detailed reports and a ratings directory.
Examples
- Credit Information Services: Dun & Bradstreet provides credit reports that help businesses assess the creditworthiness of potential customers, suppliers, and partners.
- Business Insights and Analytics: Companies can access detailed analytics and insights on market trends, financial health, and industry benchmarks from D&B’s databases.
- Risk Management: Organizations use Dun & Bradstreet’s solutions to manage compliance, evaluate business risks, and ensure the reliability of their business partners.
- Sales and Marketing: Sales and marketing teams leverage D&B’s data to identify opportunities, enhance customer engagement, and drive revenue growth through target marketing and lead generation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is Dun & Bradstreet’s (D&B) primary service?
- A1: Dun & Bradstreet primarily offers business data, analytics, and insights that help companies make more informed decisions and manage business risks.
Q2: How does Dun & Bradstreet gather its information?
- A2: D&B gathers information directly from commercial firms and their creditors, compiling this data into a comprehensive business directory and credit reports.
Q3: Who can access Dun & Bradstreet’s reports and directories?
- A3: The reports and directories published by Dun & Bradstreet are available to subscribers who use the information to manage credit risk and gain business insights.
Related Terms
- Credit Information: Data related to the creditworthiness of an individual or business, including payment patterns, debt levels, and credit account history.
- Business Analytics: The practice of iterative, methodical exploration of an organization’s data with a focus on statistical analysis.
- Risk Management: The identification, assessment, and prioritization of risks followed by coordinated efforts to minimize, monitor, and control the probability or impact of adverse events.
- Compliance: Adherence to laws, regulations, guidelines, and specifications relevant to business operations.
Online References
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Competing on Analytics: The New Science of Winning” by Thomas H. Davenport and Jeanne G. Harris - A comprehensive guide on how data analytics transforms business performance.
- “Credit Risk Management: A Practical Guide to Managing Credit Risk” by Andrew Fight - Detailed insights into managing credit risk in enterprises.
- “Business Analytics: A Practitioner’s Guide” by Seh Hui Leong - A practical approach to understanding business analytics.
Fundamentals of Dun & Bradstreet (D&B): Business Information Basics Quiz
### What is the primary service offered by Dun & Bradstreet (D&B)?
- [x] Business data, analytics, and insights
- [ ] Physical office spaces for businesses
- [ ] Internet connectivity solutions
- [ ] Legal consultation
> **Explanation:** Dun & Bradstreet's primary service is providing business data, analytics, and insights that help companies make informed decisions.
### How does Dun & Bradstreet acquire its information?
- [x] From commercial firms and their creditors
- [ ] Through public surveys only
- [ ] From bank databases exclusively
- [ ] By purchasing information from competitors
> **Explanation:** D&B gathers information directly from commercial firms and solicits data from the firms' creditors.
### Who can access Dun & Bradstreet's business information reports?
- [ ] Any public user
- [ ] Government agencies only
- [x] Subscribers
- [ ] Non-profit organizations only
> **Explanation:** The reports and directories are available to subscribers who need reliable business information for decision-making.
### Which of the following services is Dun & Bradstreet known for?
- [ ] Manufacturing goods
- [x] Credit information services
- [ ] Personal banking
- [ ] Legal services
> **Explanation:** Dun & Bradstreet is known for providing comprehensive credit information services to aid businesses in evaluating credit risk.
### How might a company use Dun & Bradstreet's data in sales and marketing?
- [ ] To manufacture new products
- [ ] For lone employee payment processing
- [ ] To file taxes
- [x] To identify opportunities and drive revenue growth
> **Explanation:** Sales and marketing teams can use D&B’s data to identify opportunities, enhance customer engagement, and drive revenue growth.
### In what year was Dun & Bradstreet founded?
- [x] 1841
- [ ] 1901
- [ ] 1978
- [ ] 2000
> **Explanation:** Dun & Bradstreet was founded in 1841 and has a extensive history in providing business information services.
### What aspect of business does Dun & Bradstreet's 'Risk Management' service help with?
- [x] Evaluating business risks
- [ ] Hiring new employees
- [ ] Opening new bank accounts
- [ ] Buying office furniture
> **Explanation:** Dun & Bradstreet’s risk management services help organizations evaluate business risks and ensure the reliability of their business partners.
### Where is Dun & Bradstreet's information compiled?
- [ ] Only within the United States
- [ ] Exclusively in Europe
- [x] Worldwide, with updates on over 300 million business records
- [ ] Only in English-speaking countries
> **Explanation:** Dun & Bradstreet compiles business information from around the globe, with updates on over 300 million business records worldwide.
### Which industry does Dun & Bradstreet also engage in outside of credit information?
- [x] Publishing
- [ ] Real estate
- [ ] Automobile Manufacturing
- [ ] Construction
> **Explanation:** In addition to credit information, Dun & Bradstreet engages in other businesses, including publishing and television audience measurement.
### What is 'Compliance' in the context of business?
- [ ] Customizing products for individual clients
- [x] Adherence to laws, regulations, guidelines, and specifications
- [ ] Implementing marketing strategies
- [ ] Increasing production speed
> **Explanation:** Compliance refers to adherence to laws, regulations, guidelines, and specifications relevant to business operations.
Thank you for exploring Dun & Bradstreet (D&B) with us. Dive deeper into their offerings and enhance your understanding of business information and analytics!
