Buying data: Good idea?

[Will_Authentic_Style]

Hi everyone,

About 3 years ago I purchased some data from a company (I forget their name) and got absolutely nothing from it.

You'd think that would answer my question wouldn't you?

Well, back then we didn't have the same process in place for targeting these companies as we do now, so from that point of view I am interested in trying again, (this time with data from a different source) as I think the way we do things now could help to turn up more leads, as our direct marketing includes some free resources which we quite often get very good feedback on and has helped to land about 4 big projects so far.

I've been in touch with CreditSafe UK (http://www2.creditsafeuk.com/) who have given me all the usual sales spiel about their data being up to date and the reason why the previous data I purchased probably didn't turn up any leads, was because it was Thomson data and outdated.

So basically I'm tempted, and the price is very good - possibly too good.

Has anyone bought data from CreditSafe UK before?
Did it work for you?
Do you think I'm mad for wanting to give this approach another shot?

Any help would be much appreciated.

Thanks
Will

 

[DataML]

Hi Will, I hope you do not mind my response, to much. I am suprised it was mentioned that the Thomson Data was out of date with Thomson being a data generator in the UK rather than a reseller, that is not a statement I have often come across. If you want an easy going approach to get another comparison quote please do not hesitate to get in contact with me supplying your criteria, I will email you a count, quote and sample for you to try and test for free. (You don't even have to talk to me !)

 

[Low Cost Sourcing]

I would be wary against buying any sort of data or if this is a route you are looking to go down then do your due diligence on any and all companies you find to claim to offer this service.

We get bombarded with emails from so called data companies offering this list and that list and although it is never something I have personally done, I know a few people who have and their experiences have all been the same as yours. Out of date data, useless data and even the so called targeted data was the complete opposite.

Find reviews (real reviews if possible as many will post fake reviews to try and get business), check their company details, phone them if possible and do not always go for the cheapest.

 

[Will_Authentic_Style]

Thank you for your advice guys. I think I'm going to go with my gut on this and avoid.

 

[garyk]

I've used marketingfile a few times. When I have had issues with their data they normally replace duff records with new ones.

 

[Sam Richards]

I hope you don't mind me butting in, but our sister company DataJif does provide something which may be of interest to you.

It does depend what budget you are working on, but at the end of the you should end up with a database that fits your company exactly, with most the junk already weeded out. If it's of interest to you send me a PM.


The other thing is if you have an active website is to make a concentrated effort on data capture, in exchange for a white paper or ebook.