In the following video, Fool analyst Blake Bos discusses Waste Management (NYSE: WM) and tells us what investors should look at to get a clear picture of the company.

Blake says general, selling, and administrative expenses are the biggest area to focus on. CFO James C. Fish's recent restructuring plan to flatten the management structure should lead to lower costs in the long run, but it could cause short-run costs to rise.

Another focal point is the economy, since there's a high correlation between Waste Management and economic growth.

Finally, Blake focuses on the trend toward more eco-friendly disposal methods. Waste Management could feel the pinch from less trash disposal, or it can capitalize on the trend by focusing on premium recycling services.