Abstract

Software designed to facilitate the analysis of qualitative data, collectively known as Computer Assisted Qualitative Data AnalysiS (CAQDAS) packages, first became available during the 1980s and have since become essential tools for researchers. This chapter focuses on current developments shaping the field, considering the increasingly impactful interaction between technical, methodological and practical developments and the questions this raises. Technical developments include data digitization, technological normalization and the growth of online tools. Methodological developments include trends in online methods, mixed methods, social media and visual analysis and the use of bigger data sets. Developments that pose practical challenges include citizen research, collaborative and cross-disciplinary research and commercial engagement with qualitative research. The CAQDAS field is at a crossroads and software developers need to continue to respond to developments occurring in the sphere of online methods to maintain relevance to researchers working in online environments.