From March 23, 2022 all corona measures in the Netherlands have been lifted. Online qualitative research as an alternative to offline is not new at all and here to stay. So it still might be good to list the possibilities:
Synchronous or asynchronous qualitative research
If you use online qualitative research, the first choice is for a synchronous or asynchronous approach. Synchronous research involves live communication with respondents via a video, audio or chat connection. In asynchronous research, the respondent has the opportunity to answer questions at his own time and pace or to respond to the responses of other participants or the moderator through a community. In all cases, the client can experience the fieldwork and provide input.
Possibilities for online qualitative research
Showing concepts in the form of images, video or audio is no problem for online qualitative research. When doing live online focus groups, it is advisable to organize them a bit smaller than usual so that everyone can have enough say (for example, n = 5). In an online community, a bit more people can participate (20-30 respondents).
Recording of video and audio and watching is also possible. In addition, simultaneous translation is also possible. And even splitting into smaller groups to work out an assignment (breakout rooms) is possible in an online environment.
Online qualitative research tools
In terms of online tools, there are several options such as ZOOM or Skype and specific tools that we hire on a project basis to do online research. These online tools are specifically designed for qualitative research and offer additional possibilities such as the insertion of randomized polls, assessment of statements, heatmap analyzes, analysis of subgroups and possibilities for the moderators such as scores for more insight into the contributions of the respondents. We are happy to advise you on a good approach for your situation.
