Software Programs for Qualitative Data Analysis by Dr. Patricia Fusch
Photo by Raphael Schaller on Unsplash
A qualitative software system should be intuitive, quick to learn, address the planned research analysis, and should assist in visually identifying constructs and theories. The software program should be reasonably priced which includes the time and effort to learn the program. The contemporary qualitative software analysis programs/Computer Assisted Qualitative Data Analysis Software (CAQDAS) appear to be intuitive and provide more features. A software programs that the researcher uses should include codes for descriptive labels to sort for patterns, identify outliers, and identify constructs and themes.
NVivo seems to be popular; it is also the most commonly used by students. However, when you are collecting data for your dissertation study, remember that you are not limited to using NVivo; rather, you can use a software program that is more suited to your own needs and that may not include NVivo. For example, for ethnographers, Ethnograph is a better choice because it was designed for ethnographic data. To be sure, the larger the data base, the more useful a software program is to organize the data and identify themes. The decision to use a software program, of course, is yours.
Also, remember that software programs organize the data; they do not analyze it. Be sure that when writing in your proposal that you do not state that software programs analyze the data because the reviewers looking at your work will require that you revise the wording otherwise.
Popular CAQDAS Programs
Computer-Assisted Qualitative Data Analysis Software (CAQDAS) refers to software package tools for coding. Most CAQDAS software will do some form of analysis for content searching, linking, coding, query, writing and annotation, and mapping or networking. Here is a list of the more popular CAQDAS:
ALTAS - http://www.atlasti.com/
Dedoose - http://www.dedoose.com/
HyperRESEARCH - http://www.researchware.com/
MAXDA - http://www.maxqda.com/
NVivo - http://www.qsrinternational.com/
Transana - http://www.transana.org/
QDA Miner - http://provalisresearch.com/
Qualrus - http://www.qualrus.com/
Software Sources Compare and Contrast
Here is a table that compares and contrasts the most popular programs.
One Easy Way to Find the Right Software Program for Your Study Design
Choosing the most appropriate software program can be a challenge. One easy way to find the right software program for your study design is as follows: Describe your study approach ("Qualitative" grounded theory, case study, narrative, etc...) in a search engine bar followed by "software". You should get a "popular" hit list of software for that approach.
Choosing Not to Use Computer Assisted Qualitative Data Analysis Software
The use of a software system is recommended; however, if you can provide a rationale for why it would be superfluous, then that would work as well. One would not necessarily need software for a case study of few participants because the amount of data that is generated may not justify the expenditure.
I am a firm believer in that students should be able to use whatever works for them. Some students use 3 x 5 cards, some use spreadsheets (Excel), some use software. At the end of the day, the important thing is that students are able to identify and categorize the data. It can be as simple or as complex as is needed.
Patricia Fusch, Ph.D.
ABOUT DR. FUSCH
Dr. Patricia Fusch is adjunct faculty in the College of Doctoral Studies program at Grand Canyon University where she teaches research courses and chairs doctoral committees. Her research focuses on leadership, manufacturing, women in business, ethnographic design, case study design, change management initiatives, focus group facilitation, and organizational development. Her publications can be found in The Qualitative Report, The International Journal of Applied Management and Technology, The International Journal of Business and Management, and in The Journal of Social Change. She can be reached at patricia.fusch@my.gcu.edu.
ABOUT DR. LONNY
Dr. Lonny is a senior dissertation coach and chair with many years of experience at multiple online universities, as well as through personal consulting engagements, with over 80 graduated doctoral mentees. Dr. Lonny is qualified to walk you through your doctoral journey once you’ve decided to take the plunge! If interested, please complete the inquiry and/or contact form to let Dr. Lonny know that you would like to speak further about your desire to partner with a professional coach towards doctoral degree completion – or any phase/aspect of the process thereof. Dr. Lonny can be reached directly via email at help@mydissertation.coach.
MY DISSERTATION COACH
My Dissertation Coach offers doctoral students comprehensive dissertation coaching, consultation, expertise, and resources. Dr. Lonny focuses on the dissertation fundamentals, to serve doctoral level candidates towards successful fulfillment of their terminal degree through individualized 1-on-1 dissertation coaching/mentoring. Dr. Lawrence (Lonny) R. Ness has significant experience in successfully overseeing and guiding doctoral research candidates from topic selection to final dissertation oral defense, and all steps in-between. Click HERE for more information…
RESOURCES FOR FURTHER RESEARCH
Engaging and accessible, this book offers students a complete guide to using NVivo for qualitative data analysis. Drawing on their wealth of expertise, the authors offer detailed, practical advice that relates to students’ own experience and research projects.
Packed with real-world examples and case studies, the book supports students through every stage of qualitative data analysis.