I am intending to undertake a document analysis of organsiations' website material. I am looking for published material ( books, journals etc) on the use of document analysis in research - its pros and cons.
Analyzing documents helps researchers understand and categorize primary sources or original accounts from people who had personal experiences with the topic. When developing their studies, researchers use established sources to gather ideas and evidence to support their claims.
Recommended Resources for Document Analysis in Research:
Books:
Analyzing Text Data by Sharon O’Brien (2014): This comprehensive guide covers various methods for qualitative and quantitative analysis of text data, including document analysis. It provides practical examples and detailed explanations.
Doing Content Analysis by Uwe Flick (2014): This book offers a thorough overview of content analysis methods, including theoretical foundations, practical steps, and various applications. It's suitable for both beginners and experienced researchers.
Qualitative Research Methods by Uwe Flick (2015): This classic text provides a broad introduction to qualitative research methods, including a chapter dedicated to document analysis. It covers different approaches and helps you choose the most suitable method for your research.
The SAGE Handbook of Qualitative Data Analysis by Uwe Flick (2014): This edited volume features contributions from leading scholars on different qualitative data analysis methods, including a chapter on document analysis. It offers diverse perspectives and advanced techniques.
Journal Articles:
Key issues in the content analysis of text by Klaus Krippendorff (2004, Content Analysis & Knowledge Representation): This article explores fundamental issues in content analysis, such as reliability, validity, and different coding strategies. It's essential for understanding the methodological underpinnings of document analysis.
Using qualitative content analysis in researching health care by Patricia A. Leininger (2001, Qualitative Health Research): This article focuses on applying content analysis to healthcare research, but its principles are applicable to other domains as well. It highlights practical considerations and provides helpful tips.
Developing a coding system for qualitative analysis by Johnny Saldana (2009, Qualitative Inquiry): This article helps researchers develop their own coding systems for qualitative analysis, including document analysis. It offers a step-by-step guide and practical examples.
Analyzing organizational discourse: Qualitative methods by David Grant, Jennifer Oswick, and Carolyn Mumby (2004, Organization Studies): This article specifically addresses the use of document analysis in organizational research. It discusses various theoretical frameworks and practical approaches.
Websites:
Qualitative Research Methods website (http://www.qualres.org/HomeMeth-3445.html): This website provides resources and information on various qualitative research methods, including document analysis. It includes tutorials, glossaries, and links to relevant articles.
The NVivo Blog (https://login.qsrinternational.com/cc5c09c5-7430-4363-8798-40d399a739ea/B2C_1A_V2_signuporsignin/oauth2/v2.0/authorize?scope=openid+https%3A%2F%2Fqsruluruprod.onmicrosoft.com%2F1ba28fe5-b706-43ca-aa8a-2dc67a096120%2Faccess_as_user&prompt=login&response_mode=query&response_type=code+id_token&client_id=6efc1ed1-e306-4eaa-9ae8-608558b2dcf7&redirect_uri=https%3A%2F%2Fmy.lumivero.com%2Fauth%2Fb2creturn&state=cd10d807-bd37-48b0-9ff4-35fd1ca8f215&prompt_social=select_account&facebook_auth_type=reauthenticate): This blog features articles and tutorials on using NVivo, a popular qualitative data analysis software. While not specific to document analysis, it offers tips and insights relevant to your project.
Additional Tips:
Consider the specific research question and objectives you want to answer through document analysis. This will guide your choice of methods and tools.
Familiarity with qualitative research principles and different analysis techniques is crucial.
Pilot test your approach on a small sample of documents before applying it to your entire dataset.
Be transparent about your methodological choices and limitations in your research report.
By exploring these resources and carefully considering your research context, you can effectively perform document analysis of organizational website material and gain valuable insights for your research.