ISL 2016 - Thinking out loud

[Brakie]

Chris, I spent hours looking at industrial areas on Bing and Google maps for various ideas I'm beginning to wonder if its a hobby within our hobby.
It boggles my mind at the information we have readily available at the tips of our fingers..

In a way it is, but it can also be considered as part of your research process. However it must be said that it can lead to "over researching" leading to analysis paralysis. Look for ideas in the real world via the Net, but also take the time to compile the information as if you were preparing a research paper or idea scrapbook to present to someone [or even yourself] outlining your idea sources and how you have interpreted them to make your current project.
Mark

Mark,To my mind there's never enough research when it comes to designing a ISL because of the many types of freight cars we own as well as the choices of industries. In my case I'm looking for industries outside the normal industries used on layouts.
As examples my General American Reclaim Corp receives boxcars loaded with scrap rubber and ships rubber pellets. Mid States Distribution receives reefers of frozen diners and other frozen foods. Pattons Wholesale receives boxcars of alcohol beverages and tobacco products. Shullerman Salvage (on the transload track) ships old tires in gons for reclaim once or twice a week.

To bad one doesn't research his choice of industries before buying a single freight car.