Surveys and questionnaires are the most important methods of data collection. The questionnaires include both close ended and open ended questions. Some of the examples of close ended questions are like is this a good time to talk?

While some of the open ended questions can be like how do you manage to complete the work alone?

When are you going to a supermarket?

The advantages for close ended questions are as follows. It is good for gathering descriptive data. You can cover so many topics. You can also get lot of data from many people. The disadvantages are there like data collected gives a general picture but does not give a detailed analysis. It may result in biased responses. Open ended questions give detailed information of the survey. This process is inexpensive unless you conduct telephone surveys. The disadvantage is that it is a lengthier process so people may not be interested in giving response.

The other method of data collection is focus groups. Focus group typically consists of 5-10 people. In this method you can start asking the questions but the response is limited to short phrase or multiple choice responses. The data you need can be collected quickly and can get depth of information in short time. But this method requires a good and expert facilitator. Hiring such facilitator is expensive. It is also hard to analyze the responses.

The next method is Observation Method. Direct observation of participants is a valuable method for collecting the information. This method gives the opportunity to know the activities, behavior of the people without having their willingness.  The advantage is that this method provides the information about behavior of the individuals in which data occurs naturally. The disadvantages are it needs a qualified and well trained observer. Hiring such skilled observer can be expensive.

On the basis of the type of study, the data that is required can be categorized into a number of categories. The extensive classifications are: 

*  Time-series data which is a collection of data over a period of time for any variable. A few precise tendency and behavioral models are observable in the data collected. It is chiefly used for studying any behavior or pattern over a time frame.

*  Cross-sectional data is a meticulous type of data gathered for quite a few variables over a period of time. This data is mostly intended for relative examination.

*  Panel data is a combination of time-series and cross-sectional data. These types of data are mainly gathered for relative analysis of time reliant variables and also for evaluating behavioral aspect of those variables.

*  Categorical data is largely assembled for fundamental studies and also for objectifying individual variables. These variables are allocated to a collection of valid numbers and are coded for analyzing them.

*  Scale data is accumulated for both fundamental and descriptive studies. The forte of this data is that it does not indicate any group, although it signifies the array of predilection of the variables on the ground of specific subject which is under deliberation.

From the perspective of helping the researchers in their procedure of data collection, countless associations are at present in the market with their proficiency. “sampledissertations.com” is also an organization which has excelled in this area.