Imagine this. You’re the Head of Strategy at a mid-sized company. One morning, your CEO walks in and says:
“We need to expand into Southeast Asia. Where do we start?”
You don't yet have survey results. You don't have time for focus groups or interviews. But you do have something that is potentially very powerful at your fingertips: Desk Research.
Desk Research: The Hidden Gem of Business Intelligence
Desk research also known as Secondary research is similar to uncovering a treasure chest of insight that's been hiding in plain view.
It draws on the insights in reports, databases, news stories, financial filings, government sites, company blogs, and the like. When done well, it can:
Reveal who your competitors really are
Highlight upcoming risks and opportunities
Show you how consumer preferences are shifting
Put trends and benchmarks in perspective
In other words, it gives you a head start, before spending big money on deeper primary research.
Why Desk Research Matters More Than Ever
In a world where speed and agility decide winners, desk research has never been more critical.
It helps leaders to:
Spot competitor moves e.g., a rival quietly setting up operations in new markets
Scan emerging trends like rising demand for sustainable packaging
Map risks and opportunities from regulatory changes to supply chain disruptions
Sharpen strategy faster by validating assumptions before committing resources
It’s the launchpad of every smart strategy.
Who Should Use It?
Desk research is not just for analysts. It's for anyone who makes strategic decisions:
Applied effectively, desk research is not reading background material, it's strategic advantage.
How We Turns Desk Research into Strategic Advantage
We at UnivDatos have witnessed firsthand how desk research provides the foundation for smarter and more effective primary research. It tells you the all-important question: "Where do we dig deeper?" So that surveys, interviews, and fieldwork aren't guesswork, they're laser guided.
That’s why we treat desk research not as a preliminary step, but as a standalone service that delivers real strategic value.
Your Next Move Starts Here
If you’re planning your next big move, don’t take the first step blind. Let desk research guide you.
Let’s talk and explore how we can support your strategy.