Which of the following are examples of secondary data? Select TWO

Secondary data is information that has been collected by someone else for a purpose other than the current research problem. Economic indices (A), such as CPI or GDP, are compiled and published by government agencies for public use, making them a classic example of secondary data. Comparison websites (E) aggregate product specifications, prices, and reviews from various manufacturers and retailers; using this compiled information is also a form of secondary data analysis. Both sources provide pre-existing data that a procurement professional can analyse without conducting new, firsthand research.

B. trade fairs and exhibitions: Gathering information directly from suppliers and observing products at trade fairs is a form of primary data collection (observation and interviews).
C. networking: Obtaining insights and information through direct conversations with professional contacts is a method of collecting primary data.
D. commissioned market research: This involves paying a third party to conduct new research specifically for your organisation's needs, which is a method of generating primary data.

1. CIPS. (2019). Ethical and Responsible Sourcing, L4M4. Stamford: Profex Publishing. Chapter 3, Section 1.2, 'Sources of information'.

2. Saunders, M., Lewis, P., & Thornhill, A. (2019). Research Methods for Business Students (8th ed.). Pearson. Chapter 8, 'Using secondary data', pp. 336-339.

3. Kotler, P., & Armstrong, G. (2018). Principles of Marketing (17th ed.). Pearson. Chapter 4, 'Managing Marketing Information to Gain Customer Insights', discusses primary vs. secondary data collection.