how do you perform an industry analysis?

Answer 1

Depends on the detail and level of information you want. For starters the easiest way is to look through different industry members annual reports. These often explain the profitability of the sector and discloses the challenges and key to success. If a lesser amount of detail is required, for example just financial performance ratios, Yahoo! finance provides sector information. If more robust information is needed, interviews with management of different industry members can be conducted.