Books and Resources to Start Strong
Starting a research services business requires a solid foundation in research methodology, client management, and business operations. These books will help you understand industry standards, develop your research capabilities, and build a sustainable business model from day one.
The Craft of Research by Wayne C. Booth, Gregory G. Colomb, and Joseph M. Williams
This book is the gold standard for anyone offering research services. It covers how to conduct thorough, credible research across disciplines, manage sources effectively, and present findings clearly. Your clients will expect professional-grade research, and this book ensures you understand the methodology behind it.
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A Manual for Writers of Research Papers, Theses, and Dissertations by Kate L. Turabian
Your clients will ask for properly formatted papers, citations, and documentation. This manual covers Chicago style and other citation formats in depth. It’s a reference you’ll return to constantly and may want to keep in both print and digital form.
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Lean Startup by Eric Ries
This book teaches you how to launch and scale a service business without overspending on tools or infrastructure you don’t need yet. You’ll learn to validate your service offering quickly and adjust based on actual client feedback rather than assumptions.
The E-Myth Revisited by Michael E. Gerber
This book explains how to build a research services business that doesn’t depend entirely on you doing the work. It covers systems, delegation, and scaling—critical if you plan to grow beyond solo operation.
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Equipment You Need
A research services business requires far less physical equipment than most startups. Your primary investment is in technology, software, and tools that help you conduct research efficiently, communicate with clients, and deliver professional output. Most startup research services operate on $2,000–$5,000 in initial equipment and software purchases.
Computer Hardware
- Laptop or desktop computer: A reliable machine with at least 8 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage. You’ll run research databases, word processors, and communication tools simultaneously.
- Second monitor: Optional but increases productivity when comparing sources, cross-referencing, and writing simultaneously.
- External hard drive or SSD: Essential for backing up client research, drafts, and your own files. At least 1 TB capacity.
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Internet and Communication
- Reliable high-speed internet: Non-negotiable. You need at least 25 Mbps download speed for accessing databases, uploading files, and video calls with clients.
- Dedicated phone line or VOIP service: Separates business calls from personal use. Services like Google Voice or Skype are inexpensive starting options.
- Webcam and microphone: For client meetings and video calls. Built-in laptop equipment works initially; upgrade to a dedicated USB microphone if audio quality matters to your client experience.
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Software and Subscriptions
- Microsoft Office or Google Workspace: Word, Excel, and PowerPoint are standard for client deliverables. Google Workspace is $6–$12 per month; Microsoft Office is $70–$100 per year for personal use.
- Academic database access: Depending on your research focus, you may need subscriptions to JSTOR ($199/year for individuals), ProQuest, or specialized databases ($50–$300/year). Some public libraries offer free access.
- Grammarly or similar editing tool: Ensures your writing and your clients’ papers are error-free. Premium is around $12/month.
- Zoom or similar video conferencing: For client consultations. Free plan covers basic needs; paid plan is $12.99/month.
- Project management tool: Monday.com, Asana, or ClickUp to track client projects. Many offer free tiers; paid plans start at $10/month.
Office Supplies and Workspace
- Desk and chair: You’ll spend hours researching and writing. A proper desk and ergonomic chair reduce strain and increase productivity.
- Printer and scanner: Optional but useful if clients send printed materials or you need to archive documents. Budget $200–$400 for a multifunction device.
- Notebooks, pens, and filing supplies: Keep notes organized and maintain client records in both digital and physical form if needed.
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What to Buy First vs Later
Start lean. You don’t need everything at once, and some tools become necessary only as you grow.
- First: Reliable computer, internet, Microsoft Office or Google Workspace, and one or two essential databases for your research focus.
- First months: Project management tool once you have 3+ active clients; Grammarly when quality is non-negotiable for your client base.
- Later: Second monitor, dedicated printer, specialized software, or additional database subscriptions only if clients request them or your workload demands efficiency gains.
- Optional long-term: Citation management software like Zotero (free) or Mendeley; video conferencing equipment upgrades; dedicated office space rental.
New vs Used Equipment
For a research services business, buy new computers and critical infrastructure. A used or refurbished laptop might save $200–$400, but the risk of hardware failure, limited warranty, and unknown condition isn’t worth the savings. Your computer is your entire business, and downtime means lost income and disappointed clients.
Used office furniture, however, is a smart buy. Quality desks, chairs, and filing cabinets hold up well over time. Check Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or local office liquidators. You can furnish a workspace for half the retail price and invest that money in software or training instead. External hard drives and peripherals can safely be purchased refurbished from reputable sellers, but prioritize new items for anything that stores your client data or runs your operations daily.
Where to Buy
- Amazon: Fast shipping, reliable returns, and wide selection for hardware and office supplies.
- Best Buy or Micro Center: In-store support and immediate availability for computers and electronics.
- B&H Photo Video: Professional-grade equipment and detailed specifications for audio and video gear.
- Local office supply stores: Furniture, paper, and supplies; often offer bulk discounts.
- Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist: Used office furniture and equipment at steep discounts.
- Direct from software providers: Microsoft, Google, Zoom, and database publishers offer educational discounts or direct pricing without markup.
- Your public library: Free or low-cost access to academic databases, making expensive subscriptions unnecessary at startup.