Which one of the following is an incorrect source of environmental scanning information?

Environmental scanning is a crucial process for organizations to gather relevant information about external factors that may impact their operations and strategic planning. The correct choice identifies a source that is generally not associated with external environmental scanning.

Company internal data information primarily pertains to data generated within the organization, such as performance metrics, employee data, financial reports, and operational statistics. While this internal information is vital for decision-making and operational efficiency, it does not provide insight into the external environment in which the company operates, such as market trends, competitor actions, regulatory changes, or broader economic conditions. Instead, environmental scanning specifically focuses on external sources that provide context and guidance for strategic planning.

In contrast, the other sources listed—consultants, newspapers, magazines, libraries, and electronic databases—are oriented towards gathering external intelligence that can inform a company about its industry's status, potential shifts in the market, consumer preferences, and competitive landscapes. These sources enable organizations to stay informed about factors that could influence their business operations and strategies, demonstrating their importance in the environmental scanning process.