Difference between primary data and secondary data which of these two sets of data is more reliable and why
Answers
Primary Data vs Secondary Data
Basis of comparison
Primary data
Secondary data
Accuracy
It is less accurate and might have to go through an examination.
This kind of data is more reliable and accurate as it has been pre-examined and published elsewhere.
Control
This data is more specific to the researcher’s requirements and is under direct control.
Lesser control over data supervision.
Relevancy
This data is more relevant to the user’s requirements.
As this data is not collected first hand, it may not be as relevant to the researcher’s requirements.
Ownership
It belongs to the original researcher.
Belongs to other researchers and sources.
Cost and time
This data is costlier as it may take different strategies to uncover the required information. It is very time-consuming.
The data is less costly as it is already available and substantiated.
Accessibility
As this is unique to research, it may not be easily accessible.
This data is easily accessible as it is already obtained by other researchers.
Error
As it is gathered first hand and not yet verified there might be errors.
There are fewer chances of errors as this data is verified already.
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Primary data are more reliable than secondary data. It is because primary data are collected by doing original research and not through secondary sources that may subject to some errors or discrepancies and may even contain out-dated information. Secondary data are less reliable than primary data.