Comparing Desk and Field

• Comparison:

  Desk - Analyses information that already exists.

  Field - Involves gathering new information.
• Comparison:

  Desk - May not be specific to the information wanted.

  Field - Appropriate to what is being researched.
• Comparison:

  Desk - Can be inexpensive as the information already exists.

  Field - Can be expensive as you may have to pay for interviewers to carry out the research.
• Comparison:

  Desk - Takes less time to gather as the information already exists.

  Field - May take time to prepare, carry out and analyse the results of the research.
• Comparison:

  Desk - The information is often in the public domain.

  Field - The information is not available to customers.