Here’s a more concise recent  post on how to manage qualitative data. This post presents an overview of the unique challenges for managing a qualitative research database and includes 7 steps for aiding the creation of an orderly and coherent database. These steps will assist greatly in ensuring that your research study is successful, that analysis is credible, and data is not compromised. Quantitative databases versus qualitative databases Quantitative data is cleaned up and recorded before analysis takes place. However, with qualitative data cleanup and analysis proceeds in tandem. In small research projects the primary researcher often handles transcription and achieving this tandem process is less problematic. In large-scale research, however, there is a division of labor involved which means data preparation is separated from analysis. Thus, developing a rigorous database management protocol is essential for two reasons. First, standardized transcripts prevent the production of incompatible data products. Second, it reduces the chance that analysis… Continue reading…

Poor quality transcriptions can significantly delay the progress of a research project, so it is essential that best practices are kept in mind at all times. This post explores the intricacies of developing transcription rules that work for one’s specific research project before outlining seven principles that help guide researchers in this endeavor. Developing Rules That Meet  your Specific Needs There is no universal transcription protocol that will work for all research projects, theoretical frameworks or data collection approaches. However, there are a few practical considerations that can help guide the development of rules that fit your specific research project. Firstly, transcription rules should facilitate the systematic organization of qualitative data, thereby allowing systematic and orderly Qualitative Data Analysis (QDA). This is the primary goal of establishing transcription protocols and applies regardless of what specific analytical tools are being used. The aim of establishing transcription rules is to ensure a high level of confidence that… Continue reading…