Many companies and other organizations create their own reports which they publish on the web rather than in journals or databases. Here are a few good sources:
The following organizations are devoted to collecting data and making information publicly available on the web. They offer a variety of general statistics and data.
Note: More specific statistics and analysis are often provided in academic journal and newspaper articles, as well.
Associations often engage in research which they sometimes provide for free on their site. Look for a research or publications tab.
For academic purposes, it is important to always consider the following when using the web as part of your research:
Authority - who made the page? Is he/she an expert in the knowledge that is being presented?
Intended Audience - is the information intended for an academic audience? Consider things like language, age level, research rigour.
Currency - how old is the page? Is the information itself current? When was the page last updated?
Objectivity - is there a bias to the point of view of the page? Is it hidden or overt?
Purpose - what is the purpose of the site? Does it inform, sell, persuade an opinion?
Whenever possible, use information from formally published, scholarly sources.