We will look at the pros and cons as we explain each form of the data collection method. We will explain all six types of methods in this section. Show
1. Qualitative vs QuantitativeOn the basis of the data you want to collect, your research methodology can be bifurcated into these two types of approaches. Qualitative methodQualitative data includes textual information that presents insights and explanations in the respondents’ own words. Unstructured questions which allow the respondents to elaborate their opinions without any restrictions are included under this sub-type. Now let’s look at the advantages and disadvantages of research type. Advantages
Disadvantages
[Related read: Quantitative Vs Qualitative Research] Quantitative methodThis includes pre-planned questions which provide numeric answers to questions. This method usually explains the “what” in research. The quantitative method helps discover trends and patterns in customer feedback. It also helps establish the initial groundwork needed to conduct in-depth research. Let’s see the advantages and disadvantages of research collecting quantitative data. Advantage
Disadvantage
2. Descriptive vs ExperimentalBased on how you want to conduct the research we can categorize them into the following two research methods. Descriptive methodThe descriptive method is based on gathering data without indulging or intervening. This type of way is usually used to describe characteristics or phenomena based on the viewpoints provided by a target set of people. Let’s explore the advantages and disadvantages of research conducted without intervention. Advantage
Disadvantage
Experimental methodThis method is focused on using variables to study relationships in a controlled environment. Independent variables are manipulated to study their impact on the dependent variable. Let’s take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of research conducted by experiment. Advantages
Disadvantages
3. Primary vs SecondaryDo you want to run surveys using an online survey tool? Conduct interviews in person? Or, do you want to use data from previous research conducted by other researchers? Depending on the channels you use to collect the data, the research method can be divided into primary or secondary types. Primary methodThis method collects first-hand data directly from the respondents or the target group. Interviews focus groups and surveys are just some of the methods suitable for this mechanism. Now let’s look at the advantages and disadvantages of research conducted by gathering first-hand data. Advantages
Disadvantages
Secondary methodSecondary data uses existing information collected by other researchers to answer research questions. The nature of the documents that the organization uses for gathering information depends on the research topic. Let’s see what are the advantages and disadvantages of research when you use existing data. Advantages
Disadvantages
[Related read: Primary Vs Secondary Research] Now that we have looked at the advantages and disadvantages of research in all its forms and approaches, let’s go to the second step in the research – data analysis. What are the merits of data collection?What are the benefits of collecting data?. You can tailor data collection to your specific research aims (e.g. understanding the needs of your consumers or user testing your website). You can control and standardize the process for high reliability and validity (e.g. choosing appropriate measurements and sampling methods). What are the limitations of data collection?– Information may be out of date or inapplicable. – The process of evaluating documents and records can be time-consuming. – Can be an incomplete data collection method because the researcher has less control over the results. – Some documents may be not publicly available.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of using surveys for data collection?Table 1. What are 3 potential problems limitations or challenges to data collected in the community?Challenges in current data collection practices. Inconsistent data collection standards. ... . Context of data collection. ... . Data collection is not core to business function. ... . Complexity. ... . Lack of training in data collection. ... . Lack of quality assurance processes. ... . Changes to definitions and policies and maintaining data comparability.. |