Primary data refers to information that is collected directly from the field. In most cases, this information is collected by the researcher in the form of interviews, questionnaires and surveys. Some scholars have also described primary data as data collected as first-hand data (Gill et al, 2015). In most instances, the data usually takes longer to collect compared to secondary data. On the other hand, secondary data refers to information that is preexisting and is already available somewhere (Bowling, 2015). The information is stored in the form of Journals, archives or the internet. In essence, secondary data is collected and is compared with other data. It is important to note, secondary data allows for comparison of overtime statistical data. In some instances, the data from primary and secondary data is used in the same research. As a researcher, one has to be aware of how to retrieve information that they intend to use in research. This study will focus more on how to recover both primary and secondary data.
Primary data is usually obtained from questionnaires interviews, observation amongst other means. The data is usually retrieved by analyzing the collected data and aligning it to the present hypothesis (Bowling, 2015). Often, this leads to a final objective. For instance, if a business intends to research its internal staff, the company will have to develop a proposal with a hypothesis. Once the data has been collected and analyzed, the business would go ahead and compare the set hypothesis with the results of the data collection. The results obtained in most cases are usually precise and accurate.
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While trying to retrieve secondary data, one has to consider the institution that carried out the research and where it is based. Therefore, large organizations and government act as crucial sources for the retrieving process (Gill et al, 2015). The process of data retrieval involves, finding the data to be used for the study, identify what was its intended purpose then secondary data analysis which is essential while retrieving the data. For instance, if a small soft drink company intends to improve its products, it would be advisable for the company to retrieve data from journals and other research material of an established brand like Coca-Cola. Before retrieving the data, one has to consider the number of resources utilized in the initial research (Ackroyd, 2012). Data collection and retrieval are critical steps for conducting any research. Data retrieval is specifically essential for businesses that need to do research both for their expansion and quality improvement. Therefore, companies should devise ways of using both primary and secondary data interchangeably to achieve their goals.
References
Gill, P., Stewart, K., Treasure, E., & Chadwick, B. (2015). Methods of data collection in qualitative research: interviews and focus groups. British dental journal , 204 (6), 291-295.
Ackroyd, S. (2012). Data collection in context . Longman Group United Kingdom.
Bowling, A. (2015). Mode of questionnaire administration can have serious effects on data quality. Journal of public health , 27 (3), 281-291.
