Qualitative research software - which one should I learn?

[Marisa Burton]

Hi everyone, 

I'm starting a qualitative study (an event ethnography plus interviews) and I need to pick which software to use in order to manage/analyze the data. 

I've never used any "computer assisted qualitative data analysis software" before, so my question is two-fold:

1) Is there one that you like in particular? (Ideally one with a free trial/student version)

2) Is there one that's more popular for use in development research? After graduation I'm hoping to work on the research (or possibly evaluations) side of things, so if there's a program that's sort of the industry standard I'd be interested in getting a bit of experience with it. 

Thanks! 

[Angela Huddleston]

The most common are SPSS or STRATA. 

Being familiar in both would be great - specialising in one or the other is recommended. But which one is up to you. Some organisations prefer one to another, but as long as you can use one well, you will have an advantage. 

Be sure to include how to analyse quantitative and qualitative data. It will make you more competitive. 

And good job on focusing so early. This is definitely a great skill to have and is something that is used quite often here on the field. 

[Marisa Burton]

Thanks for the tips - I thought SPSS and STRATA were more for quantitative data though?

This particular project is based around interview transcripts, field notes, text analysis, etc - so I need something that will help me manage the coding, help organize things into themes, let me tag pictures, etc. I've heard Nvivo mentioned but I don't know if it's really widely used or if there's a better option? (or if I'm just wrong about SPSS/STRATA?) 

[Brynne]

Hi Marisa, 

Yeah I think SPSS and STRARA are quant. 

I use NVivo for qualitative. Takes a bit to get used to but I like it and find it very helpful now.  Its compatible with Endnote, SPSS and excel. 

There is a 30 day trial, then I think student price of 100 or130 Euro/ year. 

Its the only one that I have used, but I know that there are other ones out there, just can't testify to them. 

Good luck. 

[Michael Keizer]

I like NVivo, but a lot really depends on personal preference, so your mileage may vary.

[Marisa Burton]

Alright, thanks everyone! Seems like nvivo is probably the way to go.