What Is Qualitative Research? Methodology, Questions, and Data Collection Methods Qualitative research is a flexible approach that uses open-ended, non-standardized methods. It is not constrained by prior assumptions or predictions and enables researchers to interpret an issue from multiple perspectives. This method examines a small number of participants and studies evidence and cases. Titles Methodology Data collection methods Research questions Scope of the questions Methodology There is no single “right” or “wrong” way to conduct qualitative research. Rather, the unit of analysis and its logic are typically inductive in nature. In other words, it focuses on collecting detailed and specific information about phenomena based on real data, experience, and evidence, and then drawing broader conclusions. Data collection methods The following core methods are widely used to collect data in qualitative research. These are selected flexibly depending on the research objectives and the characteristics of participants. SICA LLC SICA LLC RESEARCHSERVICES COMPANY Our organization studies the structure of domestic and international markets, supply and demand, competition, and consumer behavior, and helps you develop your business strategy based on data. Contact us Request a quote Observation – directly observing and recording behaviors, interactions, and processes in a real setting In-depth interviews – exploring an individual’s personal experiences, opinions, and underlying reasons in detail Focus group interviews – identifying multiple perspectives and differences of opinion through group discussions Research questions Main questions: What? Why? How? Qualitative research questions are typically aimed at explaining reasons, meaning, and the nature of processes. Therefore, open-ended questions that require narrative responses tend to dominate over closed-ended questions. SICA LLC SICA LLC RESEARCHSERVICES COMPANY Our organization studies the structure of domestic and international markets, supply and demand, competition, and consumer behavior, and helps you develop your business strategy based on data. Contact us Request a quote Scope of the questions The information that answers these questions is typically collected in the form of n words and narratives. This can range from an open-ended response answerable with a single word to text as long as a life story, spanning even long narratives. Related information: Customer research Market research Organizational research Product research Topical research Baseline research Policy research Public opinion research Census research Political research