Identifying the Best Sources of Raw Data

Abstract

There are several ways that the best CI analysts mull over potential data sources when planning their data gathering. You can use any one of them to help you think through what you should be doing: (1) One is to visualize the raw data you are seeking as a commodity. Then you can focus on those sources most likely to provide you with useful data, (2) A second is for you to engage in an analysis of the competitive environment in which your firm is operating. We provide you with a framework and scoring guide to help you here, and (3) The third is to start for raw data gathering with a list of potential resources for the raw data, and then proceed methodically through all of them.

There are several ways that the best CI analysts mull over potential data sources when planning their data gathering. You can use any one of them to help you think through what you should be doing: (1) Visualize the raw data you are seeking as a commodity. Then focus on those sources most likely to provide useful data, (2) Analyze the competitive environment in which your firm is operating to determine the best place to start for raw data gathering, and (3) Start with a list of potential resources for the raw data, and then proceed methodically through all of them.