How do you manage the complexity and resources of mixed methods case study research?

2 Choose your design and methods

The next step is to choose a suitable design and methods for your mixed methods case study research. There are different types of designs, such as convergent, explanatory, exploratory, or embedded, that vary in how and when you integrate qualitative and quantitative data. You also need to decide what methods you will use to collect and analyze your data, such as interviews, surveys, observations, documents, or statistics. You should justify your design and methods based on your research questions, case characteristics, and resource constraints.

3 Plan your data collection and analysis

The third step is to plan your data collection and analysis procedures in detail. You need to consider how you will access and select your data sources, such as participants, documents, or sites. You also need to consider how you will ensure the quality and validity of your data, such as by using multiple sources, triangulation, or member checking. You also need to consider how you will manage and organize your data, such as by using software, coding schemes, or matrices. You also need to consider how you will integrate and interpret your data, such as by using joint displays, narratives, or models.

4 Communicate your findings and implications

The final step is to communicate your findings and implications from your mixed methods case study research. You need to consider how you will present and report your results, such as by using tables, graphs, quotes, or stories. You also need to consider how you will discuss and explain your findings, such as by using themes, patterns, or causal links. You also need to consider how you will draw and support your conclusions, such as by using evidence, logic, or theory. You also need to consider how you will identify and address the limitations, challenges, and ethical issues of your research.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?