The Use of Computer Assisted Qualitative Data Analysis Software (CAQDAS) in Employment Relations Research: A Case Study of the Australian and New Zealand Telecommunications Sectors

Abstract

Computer Assisted Qualitative Data Analysis Software (CAQDAS) is a tool that assists researchers to engage in comprehensive and rigorous analysis of qualitative data. It allows researchers to organise large amounts of field work data into coherent logical structures and create an integrated data base. This paper examines how the CAQDAS program, NVIVO, was used to provide a robust analysis of qualitative data collected during research into organisational and workforce restructuring in the New Zealand and Australian telecommunications sectors. Primary data included interviews with management supplemented by interviews with union representatives and other stakeholders. Interviewing techniques present researchers with a number of challenges. Interviewees have their own personal beliefs and prejudices, which influence their perceptions of events and issues. Collecting data through interviews also creates the potential for bias on the part of the interviewer — the ‘self full-filling prophesy’ syndrome. CAQDAS programs may reduce these problems by allowing researchers to code and better corroborate data from different stakeholders. The paper concludes that CAQDAS tools may provide valuable support for qualitative research projects.