Managing Focus Group Data Gathering Processes*

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DATA COLLECTION CHECKLIST

__Record every session in some way in order to preserve authenticity of the data.

__Use a back-up tape recorder with a different pitch and tonality to help capture fuzzy passages or confusing phraseology.

__Have all tapes transcribed (preferably) to provide a working electronic version of the data and to facilitate checking questionable passages.

__Have an assistant take notes during sessions (you and the group members will be distracted if you try to take notes); add your notes to the transcripts.

__Debrief each group with clients and co-researchers; tape the debriefing; add to the transcripts.

__Tape your own “general impression” notes after each debriefing (this can be done in private on the way home or back to the hotel, using a mini-recorder); add to the transcripts.

__If you mail tapes to a transcriber, always make a copy first and send the original via traceable mail.

__Keep the tape copies for at least one year after the final report has been presented to the client, and then destroy them to preserve participant anonymity over the long term.

__Keep a secure log of participant names, addresses, phone numbers, and e-mail addresses in case the client wishes to revisit the same people in years to come (for example, to give feedback on a revised report to consumers or an upgraded program).

If you follow these procedures faithfully, your data will be secure and usable for efficient data analysis.