Following are the differences between primary and secondary data:
- Objective : Primary data is collected according to the objective of the research, whereas, secondary data can be used for other purposes also.
- Originality : Primary data is original data as they are collected by the researcher himself for the first time while secondary data is not original. They have already been collected by some researcher and are being used by some other researchers.
- New Planning : Primary data are collected according to a newly drafted plan while the plan for collection of secondary data is not new.
- Consumption of time and money : Collection of primary data consumes more money, time and labour whereas less time, money and labour is consumed in the collection of secondary data.
- Acquistion : Primary data is collected from the statistical units of the research area whereas secondary data has already been collected by some other individuals and organisations.
- Use and amendment : Great caution is not required while using primary data as it is collected by the researcher himself according to his purpose. But great caution is required while using secondary data. Without making necessary enquiries the use of secondary data may be harmful.
