keep finger on the pulse of

keep (one's) finger on the pulse (of something)

To maintain an awareness of current trends and happenings in a particular place, situation, or environment. Sara always keeps her finger on the pulse of city's nightlife, so I would ask her where you should have your birthday party. You've got to keep your finger on the pulse if you want to remain relevant in this industry.
See also: finger, keep, on, pulse
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

keep one's finger on the pulse of something

Fig. to monitor the current state of something frequently. I have to keep my finger on the pulse of the city if I want to be a good reporter. It is hard to keep your finger on the pulse of Washington, D.C., but a U.S. senator must do it.
See also: finger, keep, of, on, pulse
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.
See also:
  • keep (one's) finger on the pulse (of something)
  • have (one's) finger on the pulse
  • have your finger on the pulse
  • have/keep your finger on the pulse
  • (one's) finger on the pulse
  • pulse
  • take the pulse of
  • take the pulse of (something)
  • give (one) the finger
  • give someone/something the finger