[2][3] Analyst advice is often used by Fortune 1000 companies and others to determine the best option for major investment in ICT - especially where the deal is complex, changing, costly or critical.
Top industry analysts have the power to make or break deals, thanks to their deep-rooted, subscription-based relationships with end-user technology buyers.
In addition to in-house AR employees, there are a number of agencies offering specialized analyst relations support.
In 2004, Efrem Mallach listed four types of industry analysts: The remit of an AR team is to ensure that industry analysts are briefed on a regular basis about their company's strategy, products, services and solutions, as well as their ability to execute in terms of global scale and go-to-market capabilities.
In addition, ARs respond to research requests, and generally try to persuade these influential third parties to represent their organization in the best possible light.