Primary research represented the bulk of research efforts , supplemented by extensive secondary research . We reviewed key players product literature , annual reports , press releases , and relevant documents for competitive analysis and market understanding . Secondary research includes a search of recent trade , technical writing , internet sources , statistical data from government websites and trade associations / agencies . This has proven to be the most reliable , effective , and successful approach for obtaining precise market data , capturing industry participants insights , and recognizing business opportunities .
Secondary research sources which were typically referred to include but are not limited to : company websites , annual reports , financial reports , broker reports , investor presentations , SEC filings , internal and external proprietary databases as well as relevant patent and regulatory database , national government documents , statistical databases , market reports , news articles , press releases , industry magazines , webcasts specific to companies operating in the market , Platts Global , IEA ( International Energy Agency ), Lloyds Register , International modules for STCW ( Standards of Training , Certification and Watch-keeping ), ICS ( International Chamber of Shipping ), MARPOL ( Marine Pollution ), UNCTAD ( United Nations Conference on Trade and Development ), IMO ( International Maritime Organization ), AMS ( Alternate Management Systems ), MARAD ( Maritime Administration ), IACS ( International Association of Classification Societies ) and regulatory databases such as ICIS , Hoovers , oneSOURCE , Factiva and Bloomberg , national government documents , statistical databases , market reports , news articles , press releases and webcasts specific to companies operating in the marine fuel management market .
We conduct primary interviews on an ongoing basis with industry participants and commentators to validate data and analysis . These help validate and strengthen secondary research findings . These also help develop the analysis teams expertise and market understanding .
The global marine fuel management market has been segmented as follows :