Qualitative_data_analysis

Figure 9.2 Categorizing data—2
Figure 9.3 Categorizing data—3
ASSIGNING CATEGORIES 121
indexing the data. We may want to record the date at which this category was
made. We may even (in joint research) want to record which analyst has done the
categorizing (Figure 9.2).
Though in essence our task remains a simple one, we have managed nevertheless
to produce a fairly formidable set of requirements. To fulfil these requirements each
time we want to categorize a bit of data is a rather long and tedious process
(Figure 9.3).
Time spent on mechanical routines is time wasted. Fortunately, computer
software is available which can automatically accomplish most if not all of these tasks,
leaving the analyst to concentrate on the task of selecting categories to assign to the
data.
Before we leave the mechanics of categorizing data, there are some other aspects
worth noting. Assuming any additional information can be recorded automatically,
the mechanical task of categorizing reduces to two selections. We must select a bit
of data, and we must select a category (or categories). The computer allows these
selections to be made with the minimum of physical effort. No more rummaging
around for that mislaid category list. The computer will present the list whenever we
need it. No more copying data and categories by hand—the computer will copy any