Methodological implications of software use: an empirical investigation of the impact of software programs on literature analysis using n6 and n vivo 7.

Abstract

This study contributes to debate on the methodological impact of software programs on qualitative data analysis by empirically investigating the impact of alternative program use on analytical process and outcomes. Controlling for data set, researcher and software program, analyses of academic literature were undertaken using QSR International’s N6 and N-Vivo 7 programs to determine the nature and extent of adaptations imposed by technological support. The study demonstrates that while choice of program necessitated adaptations to data records, coding of data and illustration of conclusions, these adaptations had little overall effect on the processes and conclusions of the analyses. The implications of these findings for qualitative research design are discussed and suggestions for future research into methodological implications of software use are presented.