We checked for triangulation of different data sources in
order to obtain more robust evidence (Jick, 1979). In order
to make clear from the outset the empirical base on which
the analysis is founded, we first focused on secondary data.
To this regard, archival data were collected from the field,
referring to local historical archives from Motor Valley itself,
the Chamber of Commerce of Modena, ERVET, Emilia
Romagna Tourism Agency (APT), as well as documents reports
on the history of motor sport industry. Additionally,
electronic databases and physical archives of some local
and industry-specific newspapers and magazines were
used. This resulted in a database of almost 100 articles,which was queried thematically. Further, the database of
Motor Valley on companies, museums and collections,
events, touristic packages and sport circuits complemented
secondary data collection.