Evaluation of Computer Assisted Qualitative Data Analysis Software (CAQDAS) Applied to Research

Abstract

The recent increase in qualitative research has led to the production of software packages that help researchers process enormous amounts of data. Currently, several types of software are available depending on what they are intended for: data processing, text management, coding and recovery of data, building of theories or conceptual networks. This research introduces the different software allowing researchers to get an understanding of currently available tools. Moreover, it provides some guidelines to help researchers choose the most adequate tool. These programs offer valuable support in routine tasks, and conceptual and theoretical development. Nevertheless, no tool is ever going to substitute prior knowledge of methodological research.