You must keep yourself updated with the latest developments through various publications on engineering. You would be in a better position to make an informed business decision if you are aware of latest technological developments.

You can refer to various sources such as engineering magazines, engineering journals, engineering books and engineering articles to enhance your technical knowledge. To find cost-effective solutions for your requirements, you must have detailed knowledge about all the relevant parameters.

Some important parameters you must consider before using engineering publications are:

1. Type of decision you want to make using the engineering publication
2. Branch of the engineering science for which you need engineering publications
3. Type of information you require

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

Access articles on engineering at reputable engineering and educational associations

You can use knowledge resources of various educational institutes and professional associations. The libraries of the universities and institutions are one of the most reliable sources for basic information.

I recommend: American Society for Engineering Education, a nonprofit association of the US colleges of engineering and other organizations dedicated to promoting excellence in engineering education, publishes a monthly magazine known as Prism. Mechanical Engineering Magazine, a publication of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, provides information about ongoing technological advancements and engineering management issues. Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), another leading professional association for the advancement of technology, also publishes various articles, magazines and books about engineering.

Use various magazines about engineering

Subscribe to the periodicals for the periodical and updated information on ongoing technological advancements.

I recommend: Consulting-Specifying Engineer, a magazine from Reed Business Information, offers information on various segments such as electrical engineering, fire, safety and security and heating ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) developments. Engineered Systems is another online magazine published monthly by BNP Media that assists facility engineers, consulting engineers and mechanical contractors working in the heating ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) industry. Pileline Online is another online magazine for engineers, designers and contractors about materials, accessories, innovations and equipment used in the construction industry.

Become a library member to access a wide range of publications on engineering

You can get the latest publications, as well as historical publications, from reputable libraries of various leading institutes.

I recommend: You can refer to the online library of MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology), a reputable and world-known educational institution. You can also go to University of Washington Libraries to obtain required information about various machineries and tools. ASCE Research Library is a comprehensive online library resource by the American Society of Civil Engineers involving all the disciplines of civil engineering such as architectural, infrastructure, transportation and construction.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Verify and cross check the information provided by any engineering publication, especially if the publisher is a manufacturer of technological equipment or components.
• •  For critical applications, consult an expert in addition to the engineering publications.