Qualitative_data_analysis

Figure 15.2 The whole is greater than the sum of the parts—2
PRODUCING AN ACCOUNT 249
bricks and mortar are brought together to form a building (Figure 15.2). The plan
of the building has its parallel in the plan of the story. The story line has to follow
this plan in unfolding the tale in a logical way, so that shifts from one element of
the story to another are strategically related to realization of the overall plan.
In producing our account, we may also benefit from developing a plan. Just like
most buildings, most plans may follow a standard format. Our design may include
an introductory hallway, some public rooms where most activity is concentrated,
one or more bedrooms we can relax in or sleep in, and perhaps even a bathroom or
two for cleaning up or waste disposal! There is nothing wrong with a standard
design, and it still leaves plenty of leeway for interesting layouts and distinctive
features. But designs should be adapted to the functions of the building and the
materials and resources available for its construction.
With regard to functions, we have to adapt our design to suit the nature of the
audience, and in particular the time, resources and attention which we can
reasonably expect them to devote to our report. This may vary widely, depending on
whether we are addressing the subjects of the research, an academic audience,
funders, policy-makers or perhaps even a wider public. Our purpose in addressing
each of these audiences may vary from giving a general overview of selected aspects
to giving a full and detailed account of the analysis, and the character of our account
may vary accordingly.
There is no point in constructing an elaborate edifice if our guests can only be
expected to stick their heads through the front door. This may be the most we can
expect in some cases. For example, if we are reporting our conclusions to policymakers
who have very full agendas, and can only spare a very limited amount of
time on our report, then we can hardly insist that they bury themselves in the
intricacies and detail of our analysis. The most we can expect is that they will take
the time to consider a clear and concise summary of the main points. Of course,
even if they have no time to inspect it themselves, our busy guests will still want to
know that the whole construction has been completed.
Even in a clear and concise summary of the main points of our analysis, we may
want to avoid reducing our report to a set of apparently firm conclusions. Once
research ‘findings’ become public, they can be used for a variety of purposes over
which we as analysts have little if any control. We may therefore be wary of