Desk research and field research: The difference between the two approaches

Desk research: Collecting existing data

Desk research, also known as a literature review or literature study, involves gathering and analyzing existing data and information sources. These sources can range from scientific articles and books to reports, statistics, and online databases. Through desk research, you utilize readily available information to find answers to your research questions.

One of the advantages of desk research is its accessibility and cost-efficiency. You do not have to gather new data, saving both time and money. Additionally, desk research can help establish a strong groundwork for your research before embarking on fieldwork. For instance, by conducting desk research, you can identify the most relevant literature, explore research methods, and refine your research questions.

Field research: Collecting new data

In contrast to desk research, field research involves actively collecting data through one’s own investigations. This can be accomplished in various ways, such as conducting surveys, interviews, observations, experiments, or focus groups. With field research, you embark on a journey to gather data that pertains specifically to your research questions.

While field research often demands more time and resources compared to desk research, it yields valuable insights that may not be readily accessible through existing sources. For instance, field research allows you to obtain in-depth information, record personal experiences, and engage in direct interactions with the target group of your research.

Complementarity between desk research and field research

Desk research and field research complement each other and often form an integral part of the research process. Desk research provides the necessary background information and theoretical frameworks to support your research, while field research enables you to verify, enrich, and supplement your findings with empirical data.

Additionally, desk research serves as the foundation for field research. By conducting thorough desk research prior to engaging in field research, you can be more targeted and make better-informed decisions when designing and carrying out your research.

On the other hand, field research can also provide valuable insights that can enhance your desk research. For instance, by conducting interviews with experts, you can obtain valuable tips on relevant sources and reports, which you can then utilize to further deepen your desk research.

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