However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. Synthesize intelligence from diverse external sources—industry publications, market reports, economic data, and databases—to identify emerging patterns, anticipate future scenarios, and produce forward-looking intelligence that positions the firm for smart growth.