---
title: "Secondary Data Review"
slug: "gender-and-markets-in-west-africa-2016-list-of-secondary-data-sources"
updated: 2025-10-08T14:52:35Z
published: 2025-10-08T14:52:35Z
canonical: "vamresources.manuals.wfp.org/gender-and-markets-in-west-africa-2016-list-of-secondary-data-sources"
---

> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://vamresources.manuals.wfp.org/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Secondary Data Review

A secondary data review is a foundational step in the assessment process. It involves systematically collecting, reviewing, and synthesising existing information relevant to the assessment objectives. This process helps to identify knowledge gaps, inform assessment design, and ensure that primary data collection is focused and efficient.

**Purpose of the Secondary Data Review**

The secondary data review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the context, highlight key trends, and identify information gaps that require further investigation. It supports the development of assessment tools, sampling strategies, and analysis plans.

**Key Elements of a Secondary Data Review**

A thorough secondary data review typically includes:

- Reviewing existing reports, datasets, and literature relevant to the assessment topic and context
- Mapping available information against the assessment objectives and key questions
- Identifying gaps in knowledge or data that need to be addressed through primary data collection
- Summarising key findings and trends to inform the assessment design

**Process and Best Practices**

- Start the secondary data review as early as possible in the assessment planning phase
- Use a structured approach to document sources, findings, and identified gaps
- Engage technical experts and partners to ensure a comprehensive review
- Regularly update the secondary data review as new information becomes available

**Resources**

- [Chapter 3 of the CFSVA guidance](https://docs.wfp.org/stellent/groups/public/documents/manual_guide_proced/wfp203200.pdf?_ga=2.74432858.976642422.1555407117-1713178201.1542101799) is focused on literature review and secondary data
- [Chapter 2 of the EFSA Handbook](https://docs.wfp.org/api/documents/WFP-0000107631/download/) offers helpful examples of sources of secondary data
- [Example of a mapping of secondary sources](https://docs.wfp.org/stellent/groups/public/documents/ena/wfp287825.pdf) from a Gender and Markets study in West Africa

For more information, please contact the Assessments and Targeting Unit in HQ VAM at [global.assessmentandtargeting@wfp.org](mailto:global.assessmentandtargeting@wfp.org).