Primary & Secondary Research

Primary Research

Primary research is “experiments, investigations, or tests carried out to acquire primary data, the data observed or collected directly from first-hand experience” http://www.businessdictionary.com/definition/primary-research.html. In other words research collected directly by myself directly relevant to my topic/problem. It provides me with insights to seeing solutions and gaining answers for example surveys, interviews and questionnaires.

Secondary Research

Secondary research is “Examining or reading about someone else's research” http://www.investorwords.com/4425/secondary_research.html or research that already exists. Things to consider,

Evaluate the following for Secondary Research:
* It’s credibility, is it useful and dependable?
* Look at the way it’s collected – the methodology used
* The accuracy of the data
* The currency (age) of the data
* The objectivity of the data (Bias against)
* The content of the data
Note all secondary research is 100% reliable

Sources
http://www.businessdictionary.com/definition/primary-research.html
http://www.investorwords.com/4425/secondary_research.html