The database comes from the analysis of now 42 projects (as of August 2008). It consists of companies that have been observed through personal familiarity and regular contact throughout a period of at least 6 months – in most cases, however, of more than 3 years. The structure of the ratings in the database as of August 2008 can be seen in the graphic below:

 

Information for the rating
The information that forms the basis of the rating and the database is always provided by each project's management. The information required for the rating of a project is obtained through a detailed questionnaire, written by HardFacts. The questionnaire is worked through in detail.

If any further sources of information are open to public scrutiny or if experts can be consulted, all the information is crosschecked. However, the information provided by management must be taken in good faith – particularly the management of companies listed on the stock exchange, since they can be held accountable.

It must be emphasized that the rating by HardFacts is not an audit or feasibility study. Such assessments are of far greater complexity and only carried out by specialists.

The information received and all transactions involved in the rating remain strictly confidential. Only the rating and analysis are made public after consultation with the management and their authorization.