Glossary of Research Techniques

Primary Research:

- This is the collection of data that doesn’t already exist (questionnaires , interviews , observations and surveys) .
- The advantages are that  you can be very specific in the research results you want.
- Disadvantages are that it can be very time-consuming and it can involve a lot of work.

Secondary Research:

- This is the collection of research / data that already exists .
- It can include facts and figures that other people have researched .  
- An advantage is that the information is already there for you to use .
- A disadvantage is that you need to double check how reliable the source is.

Qualititive Research:

It helps to find out the way people fell about certain things , the responses are personal , it can’t be measured .

Quantitive Research:

This can be shown as a set of numbers , it can be measured and can be displayed in charts and graphs.

Questionnaire:

A questionnaire is a primary form of research that can be carried out to receive information on your chosen topic or project. It can also be sent to wide range of people.

You can also get secondary questionnaires if you use another one that is the same as what you will do.  

Focus Group:

A focus group is a group of people that you choose to participate from your chosen market in a discussion about the product or project to give you information about what it you would like to know, this is a form or primary research.

Interviews:

Interviews are conducted on a one to one basis. They are a form of primary research as you an tailor the questions specifically to your needs. they can be more in depth than a questionnaire because you are able to ensure the participant has fully understood the question asked of them.