The primary objectives of a secondary information review report are to establish a clear understanding of the existing situation and to assess the impact of changes over time.
A secondary information (or data) review is a crucial first step in many analytical processes, as it leverages pre-existing information to build a foundational understanding without requiring new data collection. This approach helps to efficiently define current realities and track shifts in context.
Key Objectives of a Secondary Data Review Report
Based on common practices, including guidelines from UNHCR, the core objectives of such a report are focused on contextualizing and assessing information:
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Define What is Known and Unknown About a Current Situation:
A fundamental objective is to consolidate all available information to paint a clear picture of the current state of affairs. This involves identifying existing facts, figures, and narratives, while also pinpointing significant information gaps or areas where data is insufficient or contradictory.- Practical Insight: This helps stakeholders understand the scope of current knowledge, identify areas requiring further primary research, and prevent duplication of efforts by leveraging existing resources. For example, understanding what services are already available in a region or what the historical patterns of displacement have been.
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Compare the Baseline Situation to Current Conditions to Define the Impact of Any Changes in the Context, Such as a New Crisis:
Another critical objective is to analyze how the current situation deviates from a previous, established baseline. This comparison helps to identify and quantify the effects of new events, interventions, or crises. It allows for an assessment of the positive or negative impacts on a specific context, population, or sector.- Practical Insight: By comparing data from before and after a significant event (e.g., a natural disaster, conflict, or policy change), a secondary review can highlight changes in needs, vulnerabilities, or resource availability. This provides evidence-based insights into the evolution of a situation, informing adaptive programming and response strategies. For instance, comparing pre-crisis health indicators with current available data to understand the health impact of a recent conflict.
These objectives collectively enable informed decision-making by providing a comprehensive, evidence-based understanding of a situation, its historical context, and the influence of recent changes. For more detailed guidance, refer to resources like "How to conduct a secondary data review" from UNHCR.
