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In A Scandal in Bohemia, Sherlock Holmes said, “It is a capital mistake to theorize before one has data.” For informed decision-making and minimal errors in judgment, the importance of data collection cannot be overstated. Not only does effective data collection help organizations save valuable time and money, but it also enhances the quality of the research being executed. However, without well-thought-out methods of data collection, gathering relevant information may prove challenging in more ways than one. Before we delve into the various types of data collection methods in research, let’s first understand what data collection means.
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What Is Data Collection?
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Primary Methods Of Data Collection
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Secondary Methods Of Data Collection
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A Behind-The-Scenes Approach
What Is Data Collection?
Data collection is referred to as the process of gathering information from diverse sources to generate solutions to problems, eliminate assumptions and further research and development. The information assembled through data collection is analyzed and evaluated to make informed decisions and plan future developments.
While the various types of data in research can be collected through a wide range of methods, the two basic types of data collection methods are primary and secondary methods of data collection. Utilizing data collection methods in research allows organizations to gather the necessary data on customer demographics, product demand, potential threats and competitors, laying the groundwork for developing and launching a new product in the market. Such data also forms the basis of hypothesis testing and helps businesses determine the future course of action, meet customer needs and enhance product quality.
However, it’s important to opt for the right type of data collection method to be able to gather relevant details that generate valuable insights. Let’s explore the different types of data collection methods in detail.
Primary Methods Of Data Collection
Among the different types of data collection, primary data collection refers to the process of collecting firsthand data directly from the source. Primary data is data fresh from its origins—it hasn’t been used in the past and is specific to the purpose of research. Primary data collection, therefore, is often considered the best kind of data collection in research. There are two basic types of primary methods of data collection:
1. Quantitative Methods
Quantitative research aims to find solutions to problems by collecting tangible or quantifiable data and analyzing it using statistical and mathematical tools. There are four main kinds of quantitative research approaches: descriptive research, experimental research, quasi-experimental research and correlational research. Quantitative methods of data collection focus on facts and figures and are objective in nature. Consequently, the data generated through quantitative data collection techniques is measurable. Let’s look at a couple of common quantitative data collection methods in research:
2. Barometric Method
The barometric method of data collection in research is primarily used to predict trends in future developments in economic conditions and demand. Forecasts are made on the basis of past events, which are also referred to as leading indicators.
3. Time Series Analysis
Time series analysis refers to the method of examining a data sequence at consistent intervals over a specific period of time. This quantitative method of data collection helps organizations gauge fluctuations in demand for their products over time. Data collected in this manner can also be used to predict sales, stock market prices and more.
Out of all the various methods of data collection, quantitative methods are the most effective when it comes to generalizing findings for larger groups. Also, because quantitative methods of data collection are objective in nature, there’s little chance of bias.
4. Qualitative Methods
Qualitative methods of data collection steer clear of numbers and mathematical calculations. Qualitative research and, consequently, qualitative methods of data collection are more focused on gathering information based on intangible and non-quantifiable elements such as personal opinions, values and emotions. Among the various methods of data collection, these are the ones that look to answer the ‘why’ behind the numerical data generated through quantitative methods of data collection. The various forms of qualitative methods of data collection include:
- Interviews: Interviews are among the most significant types of data collection methods through qualitative research. Researchers conduct either in-person or telephonic interviews, both formal and informal, using traditional notepads or audio recording devices to document the responses of the interviewees. The aim is to collect in-depth information on the problem being researched through probing questions. Interviews also help researchers pinpoint bias if any. However, elaborate interviews can prove to be time-consuming and expensive.
- Surveys And Polls: Surveys are one of the most popular types of data collection methods that are primarily used to gather consumer feedback and gain insights on customer preferences. Organizations utilize a wide range of distribution channels such as emails, social media, websites and apps to ensure their surveys reach the intended customer segments. Data collected through surveys is then filtered based on customer demographics. Polls are similar to surveys, except that they’re quicker. Respondents have a range of options to choose from to answer the questions.
- Questionnaires: One of the most common types of data collection methods, questionnaires are a part of surveys. These comprise a set of questions that are usually mailed to the target group of consumers. While questions can be either open-ended or close-ended, it’s important to tailor the questionnaire to the purpose and objective of the research being executed to generate the best information possible. Business jargon, technical terms and complicated sentences are best avoided.
- Focus Groups: Among the other significant types of data collection methods are focus groups. Focus groups consist of a small number of people who come together to discuss a common problem. Each member of the focus group is required to present their thoughts on the matter at hand and interact with one another. A moderator oversees and regulates the discussion, noting down salient points.
- Observation: Observation is another significant method of data collection in research. It’s used when researchers want to understand the driving factors behind customers’ behavior and choices. There is a range of approaches researchers adopt for observation—structured and unstructured, controlled and uncontrolled, participant, non-participant and disguised.
- Case Study Method: A case study is considered to be a type of qualitative analysis where a person, an environment or a situation is carefully observed and analyzed. The case study method of data collection in research takes into account individual experiences of respondents to test a hypothesis. Document review and fieldwork are two fundamental aspects of the case study method.
Before you opt for qualitative or quantitative methods of data collection, it’s important to first understand what the objectives of your research are. This will help you tailor your data collection approach to your specific needs.
Secondary Methods Of Data Collection
Secondary data collection refers to the process of gathering data that has been used in the past. Out of the types of data in research, secondary data isn’t fresh and has gone through statistical analysis. It’s data already collected from primary sources, which can be used by other researchers. In secondary methods of data collection, researchers may obtain relevant information from both internal and external sources. Let’s look at a few of such methods in detail:
- Libraries: A trip to the library might be just what you need to gather secondary data for research. Thoroughly scanning public libraries for books and documents relevant to the current topic of research is one of the most popular secondary data collection techniques. A library is a one-stop solution for copies of market research reports, whitepapers, directories and newsletters.
- Government Reports: For the most authentic data collection in research, businesses turn to government reports. Although collecting data from such sources is associated with certain costs, the data obtained is both reliable and trustworthy. Government reports may include health records, population demographics and information on the economy.
- Media: Utilizing various forms of digital and print media publications such as magazines, journals, newspapers, TV stations and the radio to gather relevant information on market trends and economic conditions is one of the other common types of data collection methods. Such sources are also known as commercial information sources of secondary data.
- Internet: Scouring the internet for information is undoubtedly one of the most popular secondary data collection methods in research. Data available on the internet is usually easily accessible and often free of cost. However, care needs to be taken to protect personal information and use only trustworthy websites for information.
Secondary data collection techniques are cost-effective and help organizations avoid costs associated with conducting research from scratch. They’re also less time-consuming because of the pre-availability of data.
A Behind-The-Scenes Approach
The best solutions come from relevant data and smart analyses. Harappa’s Create New Solutions pathway will take you behind the scenes to help you understand the problem-solving process. You’ll learn to think critically about new solutions as you analyze and thoroughly process information, assumptions and numbers.
Thrive Skills such as Intellectual Rigor, Assimilating Knowledge and Decoding Ambiguity will allow you to make well-reasoned arguments, absorb and interpret new information and make the best decision possible. You’ll also be able to ask effective questions to get to the root of a problem and understand data better so that you know when data is reliable and when more research is required. Sign up today for Harappa’s Create New Solutions pathway and strive for excellence at work.
