Primary and Secondary Data

Primary data

Refers to the original data that has been specifically for the purpose of the study. Data arrives first-hand from the participants themselves

Secondary data

Doesn’t come directly from the source and isn’t specific to the purpose of the study

Strengths of primary data

Authentic data is obtained from participants themselves for the purpose of the investigation. Can be designed in a way that they specifically target the information that the researcher requires

Limitations of primary data

Requires time and effort for the researcher. Requires planning, preparation and resources takes more time

Strengths of secondary data

May be inexpensive and easily accessed, requires minimal effort. The researcher may find that the desired info already exists and there is no need to conduct primary collection

Limitations of secondary data

May be a considerable variation in the quality and accuracy of the data. Info might at first appear valuable and promising but after further investigation may be outdated or incomplete. Content of data may not match the researcher’s needs or objectives