Developing qualitative databases for multiple users.

Abstract

Conventionally, anthropological data are collected and analyzed by individuals, and although researchers may use data managers to organize their information, there is little need to classify and code systems to be accessible to others. Recently, however, qualitative and quantitative data have been collected in projects with multiple researchers. Difficulties with the establishment, verification, and management of databases for multiple users, particularly in longitudinal studies, are considerable if the rules underlying coding schemes are difficult to identify or if the documentation is cumbersome. Drawing on the authors' experiences in Australia, the use of computer packages for data management is discussed, and the importance of preserving the integrity of data and maintaining context while facilitating its continued and varied use is emphasized.