3. Analyzing the Problem, Defining the Purpose, and Collecting Data Business reports require planning. Before you begin writing a report, you should define the project and gather data. In order to determine the problem your report will help to solve, you should first . What are the typical sources for gathering factual data for informal reports? Check all that apply. Interviews Company records Observation Printed material Which types of electronic resources can be used to gather data for informal reports? iPhones and other smart phones Personal e-mail messages Blogs, discussion boards, and electronic databases If you were looking for data on a client, which research tool might be most effective? Surveys Observation Digital resources Printed material