Imagine you’re doing business research and gathering a large amount of qualitative data. It’s as if you’ve collected a pool of information and are completely clueless about how to analyze it effectively.
Is there any way to do it?
Yes. It’s using the Constant Comparative Method.
It’s a method through which researchers can get maximum advantage of qualitative data. It helps understand every nitty-gritty of data. It’s more like a common sense approach.
Through this, you can explore your data effectiveness more and, most importantly, compare it with someone else. It can be another interview, product, review, discussion, or anything else. But how do these comparisons help you?
Basically, these comparisons tell about the primary differences and similarities of the data. With comparison, you get a complete picture of why such differences might arise.
But how can you implement it?
In this guide, we’ll explain a step-by-step strategy, some tips, and much more about this method, which will help you use this method effectively.
What Is The Constant Comparative Method?
Constant Comparative Method (CCM) is a qualitative research approach. It has gained prominence for its systematic and iterative nature. This method involves comparing data continuously throughout the research process. Thus allowing for the emergence of patterns and categories.
Originating from grounded theory methodology, CCM has been widely used across various disciplines. Mainly because of its ability to generate rich insights. But what’s grounded theory methodology?
Grounded Theory Methodology (GTM) is a qualitative methodology. It was developed by sociologists Barney Glaser and Anselm Strauss in the 1960s. It is designed to systematically generate theories that are grounded in the data.
This data is collected rather than derived from pre-existing theoretical frameworks during the research process.
Is the Constant Comparative Method Right for Your Research Project?
Choosing a suitable research method is a key determinant in the failure or success of a company. The CCM is a tool you can utilize for theory generation and precise qualitative data analysis.
However, it might not be perfect for every research question or analysis. So here comes the most crucial part, which is how you can decide whether CCM is appropriate for this project.
You should consider three factors before making the decision.
Be clear about the type of analysis you will conduct. CCM works perfectly when it’s combined with a grounded theory approach. But for other types of research, it might not be equally effective.
Next, you should determine whether you have the time and budget to explore new theories or proceed with existing ones. Basically, CCM can generate new theories with the help of data. If you want to test new hypotheses and be super specific, then CCM can be of great help.
Don’t compromise on time and resources
to carry out a CCM analysis. Because if you try to rush the process, then there’s a huge possibility you might get the wrong results. Why?
Because in this method, you should have a keen eye for detail, it demands your complete focus. So, ensure you and your team can fully focus.
Differences Between Grounded Theory & Constant Comparative Method
Ground theory and the constant comparative method are interrelated and similar in some aspects. However, some significant key differences will help you better understand these concepts.
| Aspect | Constant Comparative Method (CCM) | Grounded Theory |
| Definition | Continuous comparison of data throughout the study. | Systematic generation of grounded theories. |
| Focus | Continuous comparison of data throughout the study and comparative analysis. | Systematic generation of grounded theories. |
| Data Collection | Simultaneous collection and analysis of data. | Systematic and purposeful collection of data. |
| Theoretical Insights | Utilized for guiding further data collection based on emerging theories. | An essential component involving purposeful sampling to refine theories |
| Made By | Not specifically attributed to individual developers. | Developed by sociologists Barney Glaser and Anselm Strauss |
| Application | Applied within the broader framework of Grounded Theory. | Encompasses various methods within the qualitative analysis process. |
Step-by-Step Guide to Using the Constant Comparative Method
CCM is not a one-time process. Instead, it’s a continual process that includes several steps to generate various theories from data. In this section, we’ll share an effective step-by-step guide on using this analytical process for your research.
Step 1: Be Clear About Your Research
Firstly, you should define your research question. This research question should align with the research question that aligns with the qualitative nature of CCM.
But many people make this mistake.
They don’t know how to implement the CCM approach. That’s why you should train your team. Qualitative researchers should be:
- Well-trained in qualitative methods
- Have a solid understanding of CCM principles
Step 2: Data Collection
Now, you should collect all the relevant data. The analysis begins with data collection through observations, discussions, interviews, etc.
After having enough data, you can start analyzing and proceed to the next step.
Step 3: Open Coding
In this, you break down data into smaller pieces. But why?
Because that’s how you can segment data easily, here’s what you should do:
Break data into small pieces → Assign codes → Representing segment’s codes
This entire process is also known as open coding. Because there is no predefined core category at this step.
Step 4: Axial Coding
Once open coding is done, the next step researchers have to take is axial coding.
But what is it?
In this step, researchers use axial coding to identify connections between codes and group them. This grouping is done based on differences and similarities.
Ensure that this step is done properly. You might have to go back and forth in these two stages until categories are properly assigned.
Step 5: Selective Coding
Selective coding helps researchers find and refine core themes and concepts. It further describes why participants might be showing a particular behavior.
What’s the significance of these themes?
These themes are the foundation for making theories.
However, there’s one thing you should remember: This process is analytical. What does that mean?
It means you need to do ongoing revision throughout the research. Researchers should compare different findings, such as new ones, with old ones whenever needed. Following this step-by-step guide, you can conduct qualitative research with the help of CCM. It helps generate consistent results.
Benefits of Using the Constant Comparative Method
When implementing qualitative research methods, the Constant Comparative Method has several benefits. It’s a top choice for various researchers. But here are some key advantages of this approach.
Identify Connections
With CCM, you can identify the connections between categories. Not only this, you can explore more connections, which will lead to more advanced insights. These advanced insights further help in a nuanced understanding of different phenomena.
So, in this method, researchers aren’t simply analyzing descriptions.
Instead, they identify patterns and how they are connected with the data.
Coding
It facilitates the development of formal theory. How does it make this possible?
It develops from empirical observations. It uses initial codes as a basis. It includes:
- Axial coding
- Selective coding
With this, researchers can make theories grounded in their data. So, instead of focusing on preconceived notions, they get real data.
Theoretical Saturation
You can also achieve theoretical saturation. What does it mean?
It means reaching a point when, by adding relevant data, you don’t get any information or themes that are related to the research question.
That way, you can ensure that all the findings are accurate, detailed, and precise.
Flexibility
One of the most crucial advantages of CCM related to analytic induction is flexibility. It’s because there are no predefined categories at the open coding stage.
So what’s happening there?
Instead, at this stage, the focus is on finding similarities in pieces of qualitative data. It gives you the flexibility to explore various topics.
Tips for Successfully Implementing the Constant Comparative Method
You need more than knowing the procedure to successfully implement the Constant Comparative method. That’s why we share some of the best tips you should know.
- Thorough Training: Ensure all team members are adequately trained in qualitative research methods. It includes coding techniques and the nuances of the Constant Comparative Method (CCM).
- Detailed Data Collection Plan: Develop a comprehensive plan for data collection. It should outline the sources, methods, and criteria for participant selection.
- Constant Comparison Throughout: Adhere rigorously to the principle of constant comparison. Regularly compare new data with existing codes and categories to identify patterns and relationships.
- Regular Team Meetings: Schedule regular team meetings to discuss emerging findings, challenges, and potential adjustments to this qualitative approach.
Ending Thoughts
You can get amazing results if a constant comparative method is implemented with the right approach. Avoid being hasty about the process because it can significantly impact the accuracy of results.
But here’s something you should know.
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. For some projects, you might choose this method; for others, you might select a completely different approach. However, you should ensure that the method aligns with your research needs. You should consider the strengths and weaknesses of the method for your research.
The Constant Comparative method is a systematic yet flexible approach. That’s why it’s a valuable qualitative research method through which you can explore and understand complex concepts much simpler.
