Good market data comes from multiple sources. No single source is sufficient. You need to triangulate data from industry reports, government statistics, academic research, trade associations, and primary research.
The hierarchy of data credibility: (1) Primary research (your interviews, surveys), (2) Government/regulatory data, (3) Academic research, (4) Industry associations, (5) Paid market research (Gartner, McKinsey), (6) Free online sources (Statista, IBIS).
Key Takeaways
- Triangulate data from multiple source types.
- Primary research (your interviews) is the most credible.
- Always check government/regulatory data — it's free and authoritative.
- Identify and plan to fill data gaps before investor presentations.