Steps

Analysis and Thematic Framework

1

Familiarization-immersion

The first step involved familiarization with the raw data in order to list key themes that arose.

2

Identifying a thematic framework

In this step the aim is for drawing out all the main concepts, themes, and issues in relation to the aims of the study and patient responses. The end product of this step is a detailed index of the data, which labels the data into manageable chunks for subsequent retrieval and exploration.

3

Indexing

At this stage all the data was reviewed and the thematic framework applied; codes were assigned to the relevant themes.

4

Charting

The data were then rearranged according to the thematic framework. The charting process involved a considerable amount of abstraction and synthesis.

5

Mapping-interpretation

This final process involved mapping and interpreting the data, and finding links between themes. The step of mapping and interpretation is influenced by the original research aims, as well as by the themes that have emerged from the data themselves.