Analysis of qualitative data : using automated semantic analysis to understand networks of concepts

Qualitative research of business relationships and networks is of limited value if the analysis does not address the rich interdependencies of the processes and mechanisms involved and does not feature clear and credible methods of analysis. The purpose of this chapter is to consider approaches to analysis that provide opportunities for demonstrable, credible analysis of the qualitative nuances of business systems. The particular focus is on the use of computer-aided methods, including the Leximancer lexicographic analysis software, that, combined with more traditional methods, provide reliable and meaningful analysis of large quantities of textual information, including interview transcripts and secondary data. These processes and the findings that they can produce are demonstrated using a wide range of the authors' own research.