How to validate data to make strategic decisions?

Strategic decisions have long-term implications but some decisions are short-term fixes. When presented with data, validate the data to make strategic decisions 3 ways:

1. Data can be massaged and interpreted depending on how they’re compiled and presented. Triangulate the results by looking at more than one sources of research so you can compare and contrast the findings and validate the data.
2. Expand your data points! A research finding showing low consumer interest in a product could mean the market is not ready for it, or that the product is unknown. To be strategic, you will likely need more specific research questions to examine consumer behaviors for the data to be relevant and valid.
3. In the private industry, speed is prized and stakeholders’ tolerance level could vary. Assess what can be practicably accomplished, accept feedback and monitor changes in stakeholder priorities so your decisions are strategic for them and for YOU!

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How to address discrepancies in qualitative and quantitative research findings?

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