Collecting data is an important step in any research process, but it’s only valuable if the resulting data is beneficial for your business. To make sound, data-driven decisions that move your business forward, you need quality data that you can comprehend and apply. This means you have to collect your data properly using acceptable methods.
Step 2: Put your design into operation
Once you’ve planned how to collect the data you require, it’s time to execute your plan. It will depend on the type of information you need to gather. It could include conducting surveys conducting interviews, watching participants in your study, or conducting experiments and testing.
You might need to perform other mathematical operations to prepare your data to be analyzed. For example, you might calculate the averages, medians and modes. You may also have to record your quantitative data as it happens or, at a minimum, shortly afterward, to ensure the data doesn’t disappear or forgotten.
It could be as simple to record a number or count in a notebook. It could require software that allows you to track and monitor your performances on a computer. It is important to ensure that your data is accurate and reliable. Even if the results don’t turn out exactly how you’d hoped the proper record-keeping can help you recognize and correct mistakes that could be accidental.