Before you start collecting, it is best if you can clearly define what information you need. Defining your information need helps you know where to start looking. How clear is your objective? Do you need to be more specific? If you know exactly what information you are looking for, you will be better able to recognise the best collection plan when you formulate it. To do so, contemplate:

  • What information do you need? Define your objective clearly.
  • What information do you already have on the subject? What facts/background information do you already know?
  • Do you want general or specific information about the subject?
  • How much information do you want? A single viewpoint? A single figure?
  • What types of information do you want? For example, are you looking for:
    • opinions
    • statistics or data
    • case studies or specific examples
    • historical information
  • What sources could help you select the information needed (e.g. your organisation’s accountant, a peer facilitator)?