Us Privacy Policy Selecting a Data Collection Method Overview Of Qualitative Vs. Qualitative interviews tend to be relatively unstructured, with variations from respondent to respondent, guided by an outline or list of topics to be covered rather than specific questions. Statistical representativeness is rarely an issue in qualitative studies, nor is the ability to provide a statistical summary of the responses.
Qualitative approaches are most suitable for relatively small numbers of respondents.
Quantitative approaches are those in which responses can be summarized into the percentages of respondents who provided a given response. The survey questions are precise, with response categories provided. Quantitative approaches are more suitable for larger numbers of respondents and for situations in which statistical representativeness is an issue. Contrary to popular belief, quantitative surveys can deal effectively with complex and technical issues, and they also can be an effective way to survey groups such as business executives and physicians. No single data collection method meets all needs.