In organizing data, a planner should consider which of the following?

Organizing data effectively requires considering all relevant factors to ensure it is usable and reliable for planning purposes. All four factors—I (format and type), II (source), III (user needs), and IV (reliability)—are critical: format/type ensures data is structured appropriately; source verifies its origin; user needs ensure it meets the audience’s requirements; and reliability ensures accuracy. The APA’s AICP Certification Exam Content Outline (2022), under “Research and Assessment Methods,” states, “Planners must consider the format, source, user needs, and reliability of data when organizing it for analysis.” Omitting any factor (as in options A, B, and C) risks incomplete or inaccurate data use. The CPC Study Manual (2024) confirms, “Data organization involves assessing its format, source, reliability, and alignment with user needs to ensure effective planning,” supporting option D.