What is the difference between a primary source and independent evidence?

In plain language

If a company publishes its own price list, that is a primary source for its prices. If it says, 'We are the best in the industry,' that is only its own statement. An independent assessment that explains its method may be more appropriate for the second claim.

Why this matters

When primacy and independence are confused, self-declarations are presented as outside verification. The reverse error also occurs: a third-party summary may be given unnecessary weight over an organisation's own current policy.

Do not confuse

• First-party source: the organisation's own publication.
• Primary source: a record directly connected to the event or decision.
• Independent source: a source separate from the claimant.
• Strong evidence: a source aligned with the claim, scope, date and method.

What should you do?

1. Write the claim that needs evidence.
2. Determine what would count as a primary source for that claim.
3. Mark explicitly whether independent verification is required.
4. Examine the source's financial, institutional and methodological independence.
5. Make the source type visible to the user.

How do you audit it?

• Does the source belong to the claimant?
• Does it record the event directly or repeat another source?
• Were relationships affecting independence disclosed?
• Are the method and date sufficient?
• Was a self-declaration presented as an independent finding?