Fastest way to get resources?

Gather resources on the world map.

So many ways. The fastest way is to raid someone sitting with loads of already harvested resources, but that makes you a meanie. The simplest way to maximise is to use a 50% gathering boost (click on the hammer in the bottom right) before you send them out this lasts for 8h so as soon as they get back send them out. If you are in an Alliance use the Alliance gathering spot it's a little slower, but you can leave them gathering all night (that also keeps them out of the way when there are raids). You can increase your marches through VIP (i.e. logging on everyday) and through research. Nova and talent points can also be used to improve gathering speeds. There's also fast producer and swift gatherer that can be used twice or once a day respectively. One instantly gathers 5h worth of sanctuary resources and the other instantly gather the plots currently being harvested. If you have time work on all. But if you need something now use the gathering boost and send out all your marches.