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Publication Types

This guide outlines and explains the different types of publications.

Trade Publications

Trade publications are geared toward practitioners or professionals who work in industry, trade, or service fields. These publications are also called professional publications.

Published by:

  • associations
  • corporate authorities
  • professional organizations

Some examples are:

  • American Banker Magazine
  • Campaigns & Elections
  • Fire Engineering
  • NFPA Journal
  • Safety Now
  • Taxes: The Tax Magazine

Importance of Trade Journals

Trade journals are field focused publications and are important to professional fields; they are highly beneficial for industry information.

What to look for:

  • can look like a magazine, newspaper, or journal
  • industry-focused advertising
  • industry specific language
  • information contributed by industry or trade experts

They can feature information related to:

  • careers
  • industry data
  • innovation and future planning
  • market reports
  • news
  • popular topics
  • trends

Terminology to consider when looking for trade publications:

  • Trade journals 
  • Professional journals
  • Trade publications
  • Professional publications
  • Trade magazines
  • Professional magazines

All of these terms mean the same thing when referring to this publication type.