DIRECT DATA

Data that has been collected from an original source.

ADVANTAGES:

The source and collection method is known and verified

The exact data required can be collected

The data being collected can change in response to answers

Advantages
 The source and collection method is known and verified.
 The exact data required can be collected.
 Can change the data being collected in response to answers.

 Do not know if any bias was placed on the collection.

 Cannot be certain of accuracy of the recording of data.
 May not have all the information about how, when and where it was
collected to make a valued opinion on its usefulness.
 If the information was not originally collected, may not be able to get
hold of it.

 Large range of data available that could not have been collected
directly.
 Data can be available from different locations and time periods.
 Analysis might already have been completed on some of the data.

DISADVANTAGES:

May not get a large range of data

Data may not be available – location/time

Primary data refers to original data collected directly from the source or first-hand
information for a specific research or study. This data is gathered specifically for the
purpose of the current investigation and has not been previously published or analyzed.
Researchers collect primary data through various methods, such as surveys,
interviews, experiments, observations, and questionnaires.

The main characteristics of primary data include:

 1. Originality: Primary data is collected firsthand, directly from the source, making
it the most authentic and reliable form of data for a particular study.
2. Specificity: It is tailored to meet the specific research objectives and questions,
ensuring that the data collected is relevant to the research topic.
3. Time Relevance: Primary data is current and up-to-date, providing the latest
information related to the research subject.
4. Data Control: Researchers have control over the data collection process, which
allows them to design the methodology, select the sample size, and choose the
data collection instruments that best suit their study.

Researchers often contrast primary data with secondary data, which is data that has
been collected and analyzed by someone else for a different purpose. Secondary
data can include published articles, reports, government statistics, and data from other
research studies. Both primary and secondary data play essential roles in research, and
researchers often use them in combination to gain a comprehensive understanding of
the subject of interest

Direct Data Source

Data collected from a direct
data source (primary source)
must be used for the same
purpose for
which it was collected.
It is often the case that the
data will have been collected
or requested by the person
who intends
to use the data. The data must
not already exist for another
purpose though.
When collecting the data, the
person collecting should
know for what purpose they
intend to use
the data.
Direct Data Source
Data collected from a direct
data source (primary source)
must be used for the same
purpose for
which it was collected.
It is often the case that the
data will have been collected
or requested by the person
who intends
to use the data. The data must
not already exist for another
purpose though.
When collecting the data, the
person collecting should
know for what purpose they
intend to use
the data.
Primary data refers to original data collected firsthand by researchers for a specific
purpose. Here are some examples of primary data:

1. Surveys: Researchers design questionnaires or conduct interviews to gather

information directly from individuals or groups.
2. Observations: Researchers directly observe and record behaviors, events, or
activities in their natural settings.
3. Experiments: Controlled experiments are conducted to test hypotheses, and data
is collected to analyze the results.
4. Focus groups: Small groups of individuals are brought together to discuss a
specific topic, and their responses are recorded.
5. Interviews: In-depth, one-on-one interviews are conducted to gather detailed
information from participants.
6. Case studies: In-depth analysis of a single individual, organization, or situation to
gain insights and understanding.
7. Fieldwork: Researchers conduct on-site visits to specific locations to collect
relevant data.
8. Sensor data: Data collected through various sensors, such as GPS trackers,
temperature sensors, or accelerometers.
9. Diaries or journals: Participants record their experiences and thoughts over a
specific period.
10. Experimental data from lab tests: Researchers collect data from laboratory
experiments to study various phenomena.
11. Audio or video recordings: Researchers record conversations, events, or activities
for later analysis.
12. Behavioral data: Data collected on actions and behaviors, such as website clicks
or social media interactions.
13. Cognitive data: Data gathered through cognitive tests or assessments to study
mental processes.
14. Biometric data: Information collected from biometric measurements, such as
heart rate, blood pressure, or brain activity.
15. Genetic data: Data obtained from genetic tests or sequencing for research
purposes.

These examples highlight the wide variety of primary data collection methods used
across different fields of research and study. Researchers often choose the most
appropriate method based on their research objectives, the nature of the data, and the
available resources.

On the other hand, "direct data" is not a standard term in the context of computer
science or technology. It is possible that you might be referring to "raw data" instead.
Raw data typically refers to unprocessed, unstructured data that has not yet
undergone any manipulation or analysis. This data is often collected directly from
various sources, including input devices, sensors, or other data-generating mechanisms.

In summary, input devices are the hardware tools that allow users to input data into a
computer system, while raw data is the unprocessed information collected from various
sources, which may include data received from input devices.

The terms "direct data" and "raw data" are often used interchangeably, but they can
have slightly different meanings depending on the context. In general, both terms refer
to data that has been collected or generated without any processing or manipulation.
However, there might be nuances in how people use these terms:

1. Raw Data: Raw data typically refers to the original, unprocessed data as it is
collected or generated. It is the most basic form of data and has not undergone
any transformation or analysis. Raw data might be in various formats, such as text
files, images, audio recordings, or sensor readings. This data often requires
cleaning, preprocessing, and formatting before it can be used for analysis or
other purposes.
2. Direct Data: The term "direct data" is less commonly used than "raw data," and
its meaning can vary based on the context. It may refer to data that is obtained
directly from the source without intermediaries or additional processing
steps. For example, data directly collected from a sensor or an experiment
might be considered direct data.
In summary, while there might be some distinction between the terms "raw data" and "direct
data" in certain contexts, they generally refer to the same concept: data in its original,
unprocessed form. Always clarify with the specific context or domain to ensure the correct
interpretation of these terms.

Data collected from an experiment can take various forms, depending on the nature of
the experiment. Here are some examples of data directly collected from different types
of experiments:

1. Scientific Experiment:
  Measurement of temperature, pressure, and humidity during a chemical
reaction.
 Counting the number of organisms in different samples during a biological
study.
 Recording the time it takes for an object to fall under the influence of
gravity during a physics experiment.
2. Psychological Experiment:
 Participant responses to a questionnaire or survey.
 Reaction times recorded in a cognitive task.
 Observations of behavior during a controlled experiment.
3. Social Science Experiment:
 Data on the spending habits of individuals in a controlled economic study.
 Recorded interviews or focus group responses on a specific topic.
 Observations of communication patterns during social interaction
experiments.
4. Engineering Experiment:
 Measuring the tensile strength of materials under different stress
conditions.
 Recording the voltage and current in an electrical circuit during testing.
 Gathering performance metrics of a new algorithm or system under
controlled conditions.
5. Medical Experiment:
 Recording vital signs like heart rate, blood pressure, and temperature in a
clinical trial.
 Collecting data on the effectiveness of a new drug treatment through
patient observations.
 Measuring the size and characteristics of tumors in response to a new
cancer therapy.
6. Environmental Experiment:
 Monitoring air and water quality at different locations over time.
 Tracking the growth and development of plant species under varying
environmental conditions.
 Measuring the amount of carbon dioxide absorbed by different types of
soil.

In all of these cases, the data collected directly originates from the experiment itself and
serves as the foundation for analysis, conclusions, and any subsequent interpretations or
applications. The careful collection and analysis of such data are essential for drawing
reliable and meaningful conclusions from an experiment
Data collected from an experiment can take various forms, depending on the nature of the
experiment. Here are some examples of data directly collected from different types of experiments:

1. Scientific Experiment:
 Measurement of temperature, pressure, and humidity during a chemical reaction.
 Counting the number of organisms in different samples during a biological study.
 Recording the time it takes for an object to fall under the influence of gravity during
a physics experiment.
2. Psychological Experiment:
 Participant responses to a questionnaire or survey.
 Reaction times recorded in a cognitive task.
 Observations of behavior during a controlled experiment.
3. Social Science Experiment:
 Data on the spending habits of individuals in a controlled economic study.
 Recorded interviews or focus group responses on a specific topic.
 Observations of communication patterns during social interaction experiments.
4. Engineering Experiment:
 Measuring the tensile strength of materials under different stress conditions.
 Recording the voltage and current in an electrical circuit during testing.
 Gathering performance metrics of a new algorithm or system under controlled
conditions.
5. Medical Experiment:
 Recording vital signs like heart rate, blood pressure, and temperature in a clinical trial.
 Collecting data on the effectiveness of a new drug treatment through patient
observations.
 Measuring the size and characteristics of tumors in response to a new cancer therapy.
6. Environmental Experiment:
 Monitoring air and water quality at different locations over time.
 Tracking the growth and development of plant species under varying environmental
conditions.
 Measuring the amount of carbon dioxide absorbed by different types of soil.

In all of these cases, the data collected directly originates from the experiment itself and serves as
the foundation for analysis, conclusions, and any subsequent interpretations or applications. The
careful collection and analysis of such data are essential for drawing reliable and meaningful
conclusions from an experiment.

Data directly collected refers to information and measurements obtained firsthand from
observations, experiments, or surveys. This data is typically raw and unprocessed, collected directly
from the source without any intermediary alterations. It is crucial for generating reliable and accurate
results in various scientific, social, and industrial fields. Here are some examples of directly collected
data:
 1. Sensor Readings: Temperature, humidity, pressure, light intensity, and other environmental
parameters collected by sensors in weather stations, IoT devices, or scientific instruments.
2. Laboratory Measurements: Observations from experiments conducted in controlled
laboratory settings, such as chemical reactions, biological assays, and physical tests.
3. Survey Responses: Answers provided by participants in surveys, questionnaires, or
interviews, covering a wide range of topics from demographics to opinions and preferences.
4. Observations: Direct observations made by researchers or trained observers in fields like
ecology, wildlife studies, and social sciences.
5. Medical Tests: Results from medical tests like blood tests, X-rays, MRI scans, or biopsies
conducted to diagnose and monitor health conditions.
6. Market Research Data: Data collected from consumers or businesses regarding product
preferences, buying behavior, and market trends.
7. Social Media Interactions: Information obtained from social media platforms, such as the
number of likes, comments, shares, and user interactions.
8. Financial Transactions: Data on monetary transactions, purchases, and expenses made by
individuals or companies.
9. Website Analytics: Data about website visitors, page views, bounce rates, and other user
interactions collected by website owners or analytics tools.
10. Traffic Data: Information on road traffic flow, vehicle counts, and congestion levels recorded
through traffic cameras or in-vehicle sensors.
11. Geospatial Data: Geographic information collected from GPS devices, satellite imagery, or
remote sensing technologies.
12. Astronomical Observations: Data obtained from telescopes and space probes to study
celestial objects and phenomena.

In all these cases, the data is captured directly from the source of interest and can be further
analyzed, interpreted, and processed to derive insights and make informed decisions. It is essential to
ensure the accuracy and reliability of directly collected data to draw meaningful conclusions and
achieve the intended objectives of the study or experiment.

In the context of Information and Communications Technology (ICT), "direct data" is not
a standard term. However, I can provide some interpretations of what it might refer to:

1. Direct Data Access: This could refer to the ability to access data stored in a
database or system directly without intermediaries or complex processing. In ICT,
direct data access is often preferred for efficiency and real-time data retrieval.
2. Direct Data Transfer: This could refer to the process of transferring data directly
between two devices or systems without intermediate steps or storage. It could
involve technologies like peer-to-peer (P2P) communication or direct network
connections.
 3. Direct Data Input: This might refer to the act of entering data directly into a
system or application without any automated or indirect methods, such as
manual data entry by a user.
4. Direct Data Manipulation: This could indicate the ability to modify or process
data directly at its source, without the need for intermediate steps or data copies.

It's essential to clarify the specific context or scenario to provide a more accurate
explanation

Indirect data refers to information that is not directly observable or measured but can
be inferred or derived from other sources. It requires interpretation and analysis to
extract meaningful insights. Here are some examples of indirect data:

1. Sentiment Analysis: Analyzing social media posts, customer reviews, or survey

responses to understand the sentiment of people towards a particular product,
service, or event.
2. Web Traffic Patterns: Monitoring website traffic to analyze user behavior, popular
pages, and navigation paths to make informed decisions about website design
and content.
3. Proxy Indicators: Using alternative data sources to infer trends or insights about a
specific subject. For example, using satellite imagery to estimate crop yields or
economic activity in a region.
4. Financial Market Indicators: Observing various economic indicators such as stock
market performance, bond yields, or currency exchange rates to infer the overall
economic health of a country or industry.
5. User Behavior in Mobile Apps: Collecting and analyzing data on how users
interact with a mobile app, such as click-through rates, time spent on certain
features, and user retention, to make improvements and optimize the user
experience.
6. Temperature Anomalies: Analyzing temperature data over time to detect patterns
and changes, such as climate change effects or seasonal variations.
7. Anomaly Detection: Monitoring system logs or network traffic to identify
abnormal activities or potential security breaches.
8. Clickstream Data: Studying the sequence of clicks made by users on a website to
understand user engagement and preferences.
9. Consumer Spending Patterns: Analyzing credit card transaction data to infer
consumer spending habits and preferences.
10. Social Network Analysis: Studying relationships between individuals in a social
network to understand influence, information flow, and community structures.
In all these cases, the data is not directly stating the specific information of interest but
provides valuable insights when analyzed properly. Indirect data analysis often requires
advanced statistical techniques, machine learning algorithms, or domain expertise to
draw meaningful conclusions from the available information.

Direct data refers to information that is observed, measured, or collected firsthand

without any interpretation or inference needed. Here are some simple examples of
direct data:

1. Temperature Readings: Using a thermometer to measure the current temperature

outside.
2. Height and Weight Measurement: Recording a person's height and weight using
a scale or measuring tape.
3. Sales Transactions: Keeping a record of items sold and their prices at a retail
store.
4. Survey Responses: Collecting answers to specific questions from participants in a
survey.
5. Time Spent on a Task: Using a stopwatch to measure the time taken to complete
a particular activity.
6. Test Scores: Recording the marks obtained by students in an exam.
7. Speed of a Moving Object: Using a radar gun to measure the speed of a vehicle.
8. Distance Traveled: Using a GPS device to measure the distance covered during a
trip.
9. Voltage Measurement: Using a voltmeter to measure the electrical potential
difference across a circuit.
10. Rainfall Amount: Using a rain gauge to measure the amount of rainfall in a
specific location.

In each of these cases, the data is directly observed or measured without any
manipulation or inference needed to understand its meaning or significance. Direct data
is often considered more reliable and accurate compared to indirect data since it
involves direct observation or measurement of the phenomenon of interest.

Direct data offers several benefits compared to indirect data:

1. Accuracy: Direct data is collected firsthand, which reduces the chances of errors
and inaccuracies that can arise during the process of inference or interpretation.
It provides a more precise representation of the actual measurements or
observations.
 2. Reliability: Since direct data comes from primary sources, it is considered more
reliable and trustworthy. There is less room for misinterpretation or bias that
might occur when relying on indirect data.
3. Real-Time Insights: Direct data collection often provides real-time or near-real-
time information, allowing for immediate analysis and decision-making. This is
especially important in dynamic environments where quick responses are
required.
4. Transparency: Direct data is transparent in its origin and collection process. It is
easier to verify and validate the accuracy of direct data, making it more credible
for use in research or decision-making.

What is an example of a primary data?

These are the data that are collected for the first time by an investigator for a specific purpose.
Primary data are 'pure' in the sense that no statistical operations have been performed on them
and they are original. An example of primary data is the Census of India.

What is primary data and secondary data give one example?

Primary data collection sources include surveys, observations, experiments,
questionnaire, personal interview, etc. On the contrary, secondary data collection
sources are government publications, websites, books, journal articles, internal records
etc.
What are the two main categories of primary data?
The two main categories of primary data are quantitative and qualitative data.
Quantitative data is data that can be measured. Here are some concrete examples of
quantitative data:

 The number of houses in a community with one child or fewer

 The years of schooling study participants have
 The number of days a respondent is absent from work in a given period

Qualitative data, on the other hand, is data that cannot be quantified or measured. For example:

 Opinions about a specific topic, like government policies

 Personal experiences in healthcare or justice systems
 Level of satisfaction with a local education initiative

What are the most common methods of collecting primary data?

Surveys and questionnaires

Surveys are one of the most common forms of collecting large amounts of primary data. By
definition, a survey is a series of questions used to investigate the experience or opinions of a
group of people.

Surveys are great for high-frequency studies where a large number of respondents are needed.
Since you can deploy surveys using tools like SurveyCTO, it’s possible to deploy a survey to
thousands of respondents and get respondents in a relatively short period.

Direct data refers to information or data that is collected firsthand, directly from the
source, without any intermediary or manipulation. It is data that is obtained through
direct observation, measurement, or surveying, rather than relying on secondhand or
aggregated data from other sources.

For example, if you conduct a survey and collect responses directly from individuals, the
data obtained from the survey would be considered direct data. Similarly, if you
measure the temperature outside using a thermometer, the temperature reading you
obtain is direct data.

Direct data is often considered more reliable and accurate since it comes directly from
the original source without any potential biases or inaccuracies introduced during data
processing or manipulation. However, collecting direct data can be time-consuming and
resource-intensive, depending on the methods used for data collection.
ome common sources of direct data include:

1. Surveys and Questionnaires: Surveys and questionnaires are designed to

collect specific information directly from individuals or groups. They can
be conducted in person, over the phone, through email, or online
platforms. Surveys are often used in market research, social sciences,
and customer feedback.
2. Interviews: Interviews involve direct conversations with individuals or
groups to gather information. They can be structured, semi-structured,
or unstructured, depending on the research objectives. Interviews are
commonly used in qualitative research to gain deeper insights into
people's experiences, opinions, and perspectives.
3. Observations: Observational methods involve systematically watching
and recording behavior, events, or phenomena. Observations can be
conducted in controlled environments (laboratory settings) or natural
 settings (field observations). They are frequently used in anthropology,
psychology, and sociology.
4. Experiments: Experiments are controlled procedures in which variables
are manipulated to observe their effect on other variables. They are
commonly used in scientific research to establish cause-and-effect
relationships. Experimental data is collected under controlled conditions
to ensure accurate and reliable results
Sensors and Internet of Things (IoT) Devices: Sensors and IoT devices can collect real-
time data from various sources, such as environmental conditions, vehicle movements,
health parameters, etc. These devices generate continuous streams of direct data, which
is often used in data analytics and decision-making processes.
1. Focus Groups: Focus groups involve bringing together a small group of
individuals to discuss specific topics or issues. The facilitator leads the discussion
to gather direct feedback and opinions from participants, making it useful for
market research and product development.
2. Administrative Data: Administrative data is collected as part of routine
organizational processes. It includes data from government agencies, businesses,
healthcare providers, educational institutions, etc. Examples include tax records,
sales data, medical records, and student enrollment data.

3. Social Media Data: Social media platforms generate vast amounts of user-
generated content, such as posts, comments, likes, and shares. Analyzing social
media data can provide insights into public opinions, trends, and sentiments.

Direct Data Entry

Direct Data Entry Device
Magnetic Stripe Reader : Reading information stored on magnetic stripes, e.g., credit cards, ID
cards
Chip and PIN Reader: Processing debit and credit card transactions in stores

RFID Reader: Reading information from RFID tags, e.g., inventory tracking, access control

Input Devices
Characteristics of Input Devices

 Input devices: allow users to enter data or instructions into a computer system e.g.:
o Keyboard
o Mouse
o Scanner
o Microphone
 o Touch screen

Differences between Input & Output Devices

 Input devices send data or instructions to the computer, while output devices receive
data from the computer
 Input devices are used for user interaction and data entry, while output devices display
or produce the results of data processing

Input Device
Use Advantages Disadvantages

Fast and accurate The steeper learning

Keyboard &
Entering text and numbers input for experienced curve, repetitive strain
Numeric Keypad
users injury
Navigate and interact with Intuitive and precise Requires flat surface,
Pointing Devices
computer interfaces control the strain on the wrist
Control devices from a Convenient, no direct
Limited range, may
Remote Control distance, e.g., TVs and physical contact is
require line-of-sight
media players needed
Enhances gameplay Expensive, limited use
Joystick/Driving Simulation and driving
experience, realistic outside of gaming,
Wheel games
control bulky
Direct interaction with the Intuitive, no need for The screen may get
Touch Screen screen using fingers or a a separate pointing dirty, less precise than a
stylus device mouse
Accurate Quality depends on
Scanners and Capture images and convert
reproduction, easy to resolution, which can be
Cameras them into digital format
share and store expensive
Capture a sound for Hands-free input can May pick up
Microphone recording or communication be used for voice background noise, the
purposes recognition quality varies
Sensors detect changes in Can automate tasks, May require calibration,
Sensors and Light
the environment; light pen provides real-time affected by the
Pen
interacts with screens information environment
Exam Tip

 Note that a mouse isn't built into a laptop - instead, it would be another pointing device
e.g. trackpad
 All the devices listed here are input devices. Some people think microphones and
webcams are output devices

Direct Data Entry

 Direct Data
Use Advantages Disadvantages
Entry Device

Reading information stored Data can be easily erased,

Magnetic Stripe Fast, simple to use,
on magnetic stripes, e.g., and limited storage
Reader reliable
credit cards, ID cards capacity

Processing debit and credit card Secure, quick transaction, Requires PIN input, potential
Chip and PIN
Reader transactions in stores reduced fraud risk for skimming

Reading information from No line-of-sight is

The expensive system, and
RFID Reader RFID tags, e.g., inventory needed, multiple tags are
potential privacy concerns
tracking, access control read simultaneously

OMR (Optical Reading marked areas on

Fast processing, reduced Limited to specific forms,
Mark forms, e.g., multiple-choice
human error cannot read handwriting
Recognition) exams

OCR (Optical Converting printed text into

The fast and accurate, Can struggle with complex
Character digital text, e.g., digitising
searchable digital text layouts, font dependent
Recognition) books

Scanning barcodes to retrieve

Fast and accurate, low Requires line-of-sight,
Barcode Reader product information and
cost limited data storage
prices
Scanning QR codes for Requires a smartphone or
Can store more data,
QR Scanner information retrieval or specific scanner, quality
versatile uses
linking to websites dependent
Worked example
For each of the following uses of data capture, name one appropriate direct data entry
device. The devices must be different in each case

a. Contactless credit cards

[1]

Radio Frequency Identification/RFID reader [1]

b. Multiple choice answers in an examination paper

[1]

Optical Mark Reader/OMR [1]

c. To scan items at a computerised till

[1]

Bar Code reader/scanner [1]

Direct data entry device

WHAT is a direct data entry device?
Direct data entry devices are devices that read data from a source that’s provided and
transferred it directly to the computer system. Unlike, input devices which rely on
physical interaction which means you’ll have to physically move or do something to
the device for an outcome.

Examples of direct data entry devices: and

their advantages/disadvantages:
1) Magnetic stripe reader– used to read data from magnetic stripes on mostly
banking cards

Advantages: information can be put into very quickly, more accurate than typing

Disadvantages: not secure as data stored on the chip, very limited storage capacity in
the stripe
2) Chip readers– read data from the chip on bank cards

Advantages: more secure than magnetic stripe system, can hold lots of data, data
protected with PIN (personal identification number)

Disadvantages: it is not widely available as magnetic stripe readers.

3) PIN pads– use to enter data into Automated Teller Machines (ATM), EFTPOS
system, entry doors and handheld devices
Advantages: PIN codes help prevent unauthorised access, secure entry doors can be
accessed without physical key cards.

Disadvantages: people can be seen entering the code, anyone with the correct code
can use the device, PIN code can be forgotten

4) Optical mark reader– used to read and input information from a form.

Advantages: whole pages of information can be read very quickly, small marks
required

Disadvantages: incorrectly completed forms can result in errors, characters or

numbers cannot be read.
 IT (9626)
Theory Notes
Example 2: Weather data
Data loggers are set up all
over the country to
measure local
weather conditions.
All this data is gathered
together by the 'Met office'
to allow
weather forecasts to be made.
(Direct or original source
data)
But this 'data set' may also be
purchased by a local
business who
wants to see how sales of
their ice-cream relates to the
weather.
This information is used to
plan ice-cream production
ahead of time.
(indirect data)
Advantages and
Disadvantages of
Gathering Data from Direct
and Indirect Data Sources
Direct Data Source
Indirect Data Source
The data will be relevant
because what is
needed has been collected.
Additional data that is not
required will exist
that may take time to sort
through and some
data that is required may not
exist.
The original source is known
and so can be
trusted.
The original source may not
be known and so
it can’t be assumed that it is
reliable.
It can take a long time to
gather original data
rather than use data that
already exists.
The data is immediately
available.
A large sample of statistical
data can be
difficult to collect for one-off
purposes.
If statistical analysis is
required, then there
are more likely to be large
samples available.
The data is likely to be up to
date because it
has been collected recently.
Data may be out of date
because it was
collected at a different time.
Bias can be eliminated by
asking specific
questions.
Original data may be biased
due to its source.
The data can be collected and
presented in
the format required.
The data is unlikely to be in
the format
required, which may make
extracting the data
difficult.
5) Barcode reader– used to scan codes directly from the products,books and
membership cards

Advantages: faster, more accurate than manually inputting data, barcodes are used
internationally to identify the product

Disadvantages: barcode only contains numerical code, barcodes can be easily

damaged.

Evaluating direct data input devices:

It is very important to choose the best device based on the user’s needs and consider
the advantages and the drawbacks of it. The diagram below shows the main
considerations that should be taken when choosing a direct data entry device.

What is direct data? A direct data source is one that data can be gathered from, without having
to go to a third party. It gives us data that is often called 'original source data'. A census is a
common direct method of collecting demographic data.

What is a direct data entry device? Direct data entry devices are specific purpose devices
designed to automate or speed up the entry of data in to the system by minimising human data
entry. They have a wide range of uses including in education, retail and in business.

What are the examples of primary and secondary data? Primary data collection sources
include surveys, observations, experiments, questionnaire, personal interview, etc. On the
contrary, secondary data collection sources are government publications, websites, books,
journal articles, internal records etc.

What are the examples of secondary data? Secondary data means data collected by someone
else earlier. Surveys, observations, experiments, questionnaire, personal interview, etc.
Government publications, websites, books, journal articles, internal records etc. Always specific
to the researcher's needs.

Primary Data

These are the data that are collected for the first time by an investigator
for a specific purpose. Primary data are ‘pure’ in the sense that no
statistical operations have been performed on them and they are
original. An example of primary data is the Census of India.