Catalogers are Turning to the Co-op Databases for Prospecting

Since co-ops may offer more than one model, look into testing various models. Schmid explains, "Abacus, for example, has a basic Chaid and Synergy model, but there also are other more sophisticated models they're developing."

Also ensure that you have statistical reliability and validity in the size of the models being tested, adds Schmid. "Think of the 'rule of 100,' which states that every test side should have a minimum of 100 responses to be projectable for the future."