What tools can be used to collect and integrate data sets?

The selection of interviews, focus groups, and online research as tools for collecting and integrating data sets is valid because these methods facilitate qualitative and quantitative data gathering. Interviews allow for in-depth exploration of individual perspectives, providing rich, detailed information that can be crucial for understanding complex issues. Focus groups bring together diverse viewpoints which can spark discussions that lead to insights not achievable through one-on-one interviews alone. Online research serves as a means to access existing data and benchmarks that can complement primary data collection efforts, enabling the triangulation of data sources for more comprehensive analysis.

Combining these tools allows for a multifaceted approach to data gathering, ensuring that various dimensions of a research question or business problem are addressed. This integration of methods can enhance the reliability and validity of the findings, as different sources of data can either corroborate each other or reveal differing insights that can inform decision-making more effectively.

The other options imply more restrictive or singular approaches that limit the effectiveness of data collection and integration. For instance, relying solely on automated data collection software may overlook critical qualitative insights that can be gathered through direct interaction with subjects. Random sampling and unstructured surveys, while useful, could fall short on their own without the structured insights gained from interviews and focus groups. Overall, the