Which type of data is collected by outside agencies like government or trade associations?

The type of data collected by outside agencies such as government bodies or trade associations is classified as external secondary data. This data is generated by sources that are not affiliated with the organization conducting the research. For instance, government publications, census data, and industry reports from trade associations can provide valuable information that organizations can utilize for their marketing analysis.

External secondary data is distinct because it is often already compiled and publicly available, allowing businesses to save time and resources that would otherwise be spent on primary data collection. This external data can help organizations to understand market trends, customer demographics, and competitive landscapes without the need for direct involvement in the data gathering process.

Other options represent different forms of data that do not fit the description provided: internal secondary data consists of information that is gathered from within the organization, primary data involves firsthand collection of information directly from a target audience, and a literature review is a summary and analysis of existing research rather than a specific type of data collection.