| 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. |