Encounters with CAQDAS: Advice for Beginner Users of Computer Software for Qualitative Research

Abstract

We intend this article to be predominantly for researchers who would like to use software of the CAQDAS family in their research projects. Our experience as researchers and CAQDAS instructors shows that the introduction of software into the analytic process often poses a challenge. This is true for both novice and more seasoned researchers with entrenched habits of conducting research in a traditional manner. The literature available provides few answers to the questions preoccupying inexperienced users; our aim is to close this gap by providing useful information. We discerned major problem areas for scholars who are just setting off on their journey with CAQDAS. We tackle these issues in our article by providing replies to key questions: Is CAQDAS for me? How can I effectively search for and identify a suitable program? What should I bear in mind when using CAQDAS? By pitting benefits against limitations of CAQDAS implementation, we intend to address the expectations of using software in research.