Early Steps in Analysis

In ths chapter we describe rnethods for qualitative data

analysis that are useful during the early stages of a study,
often while data collection is going on. lbey heir organize
data for later, deeper analyses, such as those using the displays described in Chapters 5 through 8.
Why is early data analysis important at al!? Some qualitative researchers put primary energy into data collection
for weeks, months, or even years and then retire frorn die
freid to "work over their notes." We beleve chis is a mistake. It mies out the possibility of collectingew data to
ftll in gapa, or to test new hypotheses that emerge during
analysis. It discourages the formulation of "rival hypotheses" that question a field-worker's routine assurriptions
and biases. And it makes analysis into a gient, sometimes
overwhelming, task that demotivates the researcher and
reduces the quality of the work produced.
We strongly recomrnend early analysis. It helps the
field-worker cycle back and forth between thinking about
the existing data and generating strategies for collecting
new, often better, data. It can be a healthy corrective for
built-in blind spots. It rnakp.s analysis an ongoing, lively
enterprise that contributes to the energizing process of
fieldwork. Furthermore, early analysis permits the production of the interim reports that are required in most evaluation and policy studies. So we advise interweaving data
collection and analysis from the start. And even in studies
with orce round of data collection, these early analysis

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methods can be very helpful.

In Chis chapter we describe eight main rnethods useful
for early analysis, along with seven supplementary ones.
Earh of the main methods is presented n chis format:
Neme of mechad.
Analysis prablem The problem, need, or difficulty faced by a
qualitative data analyst, for which the method may be a
usefut solution.
Brief description. What the method is and how it works,
laustratiort. In more detall, a "m'Atuse" showing how the
method is developed and used. Usually Chis section has a
variety of nonstandard subheadings, such as "Making the
form," "Assembling the data," "Drawing conclusions,"
"Revising and editing," and "using the results."
Variations. Alternative approaches that use the sarne general
principie. Work of other researchers is cited
Advice. Summarizing comments about the use of the
method, and tips for using it well.
Time required. Estimetes to guide the researcher. Maese 9,11
vary according to subject matter, the researcher's skill, the
research questions being asked, the number of cases, and
so en.