Choosing a Qualitative Data Analysis Tool
While all Qualitative Data Analysis (QDA) tools have the same basic functionality, there are differences between each of the the programs in terms of cost, the time needed to learn the software, availability of help when you run into trouble, or how well they handle the specific types of data and methods you use.
Primary Full-Feature Software Packages
Available at no cost through the Chicago School Library:
- NVivo - A streamlined and familiar interface and support for a variety of data types and organizational structures make NVivo a good all-around choice for any project. But, annotations and memos are less integrated than they should be, and the Mac version has both fewer features and a different file type (hindering collaboration).
The following full feature software packages are not free, but all offer significant discounts to student researchers. Most also offer a free trial.
- Atlas.ti - Atlas.ti excels at memos and other tools for theory building. It also has network tools and a companion online version. Recent versions have greatly improved labeling and added features that were standard for it's competitors.
- MAXQDA -Auto-coding; data visualization tools; collaboration focused; includes Interrater reliability. Fewer visualization options than other software; survey data can be challenging to work with
Other QDA Options:
Free/Open Source
- Taguette - Simple web interface supporting just basic code-and-retrieve. Supports sensitive data with a local or server install, or use their free server.
- Qualcoder - Python-based with an installer for Windows only (must run from source on Mac). More full-featured than other free options, including colors, cases, and right click menus (see a video demonstration). Accepts Word documents, pdfs, images, and video. Takes a bit of work to get started, but easy to use once learned.
- TAMS Analyzer - (MAC only) A long-available option that was recently updated. It only accepts PDF, TXT, JPG, and RTF files (which Word can save as). It visibly tags text with the codes and allows for basic code and retrieve.
- QCoder - R package with some point-and-click options (must install R first). Best for those already using R for quantitative needs and desiring some mixed methods options.
Convenient
- Excel or Google Sheets or Calc - Any spreadsheet program can do basic code and retrieve using the filter and pivot table functions which all of them have. See this video on Qualitative Analysis Using Excel (TrixieMay Racer)
- Quirkos - with student licenses $21 for 3 months with cloud storage. Non-standard but colorful and simplistic interface. Best for shorter documents.
Online
These offer per-month pricing, (~$10-20/month), good for shorter projects
- Atlas.ti Web- Not full-featured, more suitable for first-time users with uncomplicated needs.
- Dedoose - Designed for mixed methods projects with fewer but more complex codes (allows ratings), this full-featured online software is a solid choice in some circumstances, especially distributed groups with somewhat complex projects, or those that would benefit from monthly pricing.
- Delve - Designed for interview or focus group transcripts, it is slick and easy-to-use with some advanced features such as participant descriptors. See education pricing.
Use this QDA Comparison Tool to compare features/ costs/ etc.
Reviews Of QDA tools:
You can find reviews of many qualitative software packages at this University of Surrey link:
