Know your data

Chapter 3 covers the specifics of text, numeric, video and pictographic data, and the associated possibilities and limitations for content analysis. We describe the differences between research-produced and process-produced data – from the design (considering data types, research objectives, and operationalization) and data production (including sampling, data collection, and data type) to the analysis possibilities (resulting from data storage and types of analysis) and using results and archiving data. Limitations for content analysis also root in the use of data for a secondary study. In comparison to a primary study, data is not collected for answering your research question. However, doing a secondary study means that you do not have to spend time on data collection.