Data Analysis Software in Qualitative Research Preconceptions, Expectations, and Adoption

Research shows that more and more qualitative researchers now use computer software for qualitative data analysis. However, concerns, problems, and misunderstandings continue among developers themselves and researchers about its merits, their preconceptions, expectations, and adoption of the technology. This article examines the role of computer-assisted qualitative data analysis software focusing on the methodological issues surrounding program use and identifies the factors that result to unrealistic expectations of the innovation as a methodology in itself. The secondary aim is to help guide both the expert and novice qualitative critical care researchers on their decision making whether to use or not to use computer-assisted qualitative data analysis software in their studies. A brief review of 2 very common and widely used qualitative data analysis software packages will be presented. A section on making good use of supervision and mentorship in conducting a qualitative inquiry is included. Implications for its adoption and to qualitative research as a whole will be discussed.