Qualitative Research

Qualitative research methods aim to gather primary in-depth data.  Information can be gathered using a variety of methods ranging from structured or semi-structured interviews and surveys, to overt and covert participant observation.  This broad method is typically used within the realms of the social sciences, social investigation, and anthropology.

Qualitative methods can enable us to gain an understanding of behaviour at a personal and in-depth level.  By using face-to-face or direct contact techniques we can answer questions regarding, choice, motivation, habit, and consumption.

Qualitative research methods are often considered to be rich and diverse and can produce unexpected outcomes.  Data analysis considers the frequency of themes within verbatim responses as well as clusters amongst close-ended questioning.

Face-to-face interviews

Our research team are experienced in face-to-face techniques and strictly adhere to the MRS (Market Research Society) code of conduct.  Face-to-face interviewing as a method of personally administering questionnaires has significant advantages as well as some disadvantages.

Focus Groups

Focus groups are valuable in the early stages of qualitative research and are useful when investigating why people do things.

Focus groups help you to connect with your market, so you can become more aware of what is going on with your customers, their motivations and attitudes. Focus groups will help you in developing or testing solutions and strategies and is an ideal exploratory technique because of the freedom and interaction inherent in a group situation.

Participant observation

Participant Observation is a research strategy that involves getting close to people.  It requires the researcher to make the participants feel comfortable enough in their prescence in order that observations are recorded about their lives.  Participant observation data gathered can be both qualitative and quantitative.

In-depth life stories