Here is step 1. in researching your opp in ponds. 1 see how many players are in the pond.
2 See who is in the pond.
3 Next check there opening bids. there will be a range between 20-40 depending upon the amount of players and who they are. you must take and average, and bet somewhere between, and not always go for best bid or trying to be in first.
4 Next go to the 2nd rd bids look at everyones average bid again. You must do this for everyrd and must research every pond they have EVER Been in.
5 repeat for every rd of the pond

Now tell me is it worth the research? NO! But it WILL work and i guarantee you will be a top 3 player. But again it will take way to much time. and instead of spending about 1 minute making your move itll now take 2-3 hours per move. not a great trade.