Schools of Thought

Co-Moderating the Future: Embracing AI without Losing the Human Spark

This personal essay chronicles a qualitative researcher’s pivotal moment in embracing AI moderation. What began as fear—a client’s unexpected request for AI-led IDIs—transformed into curiosity and confidence through hands-on exploration of AI platforms. The article outlines where AI moderation works (structured, low-emotion contexts; large sample sizes; hybrid models) and where human moderators remain indispensable (emotionally nuanced, culturally complex conversations). It also shares practical hybrid use cases, key questions for evaluating AI platforms, and a call for moderators to evolve from “resisters” to “meaning makers” who blend human intuition with AI’s efficiency to serve clients better. […]

Spanish Translations

Seis Sombreros para Pensar: El Poder de una Revisión Holística

El Dr. Dave Oventhal, profesor de estrategia e investigación con años de experiencia aplicada en diversos roles de producto, sugiere utilizar la metodología de los Seis Sombreros para Pensar (Sombreros) para asegurar la participación total del equipo y reducir el tiempo de reunión al revisar y mejorar de forma efectiva las actividades de investigación. El Dr. Dave explica cómo usar los Sombreros, al planear, durante y después de un proyecto de investigación, y cómo asegurar que los equipos trabajen en paralelo. […]

Quant Lens

Conjoint Analysis: A Valuable Complement to Qualitative Research

This article demystifies conjoint analysis for qualitative researchers, showing how it enhances the work they already do by turning exploratory insights into structured, predictive decision models. It explains how qualitative research uncovers the “what” and “why,” while conjoint reveals the “how much” behind consumer preferences—crucial for product development, pricing, positioning, and segmentation. With a clear explanation of terminology, case studies, and caveats, the article equips qualitative professionals to confidently recommend or collaborate on conjoint projects. Whether you’re curious about how to prioritize product features or simulate market scenarios, this is a must-read primer. It’s part of QRCA VIEWS’ ongoing series that helps quallies better understand complex quant methods. […]

Podcasts

VIEWS Podcasts: Frank Murgalo

In this episode of Conversations in Depth, host Mike Carlon interviews Frank Murgalo—a man whose life and career are living proof that reinvention never goes out of style. From Marine reservist to soup entrepreneur, stand-up comic to Off-Broadway producer, Murgalo’s story is equal parts inspiring and entertaining. He shares honest insights on embracing change, navigating uncertainty, and using humor and resilience as tools for growth. For researchers or professionals eyeing their next pivot, this conversation is a masterclass in adaptability and lifelong curiosity. It’s a refreshing reminder that your next chapter can start at any age—even 82. […]

Schools of Thought

Getting Real with Gen Z: Sensitivity, Neurodivergence, and the Search for Meaning

This powerful article offers a deeply human portrait of Generation Z—one that challenges common stereotypes and reveals a generation driven by intuition, authenticity, and a search for meaning. Based on years of qualitative and quantitative research, it explores how Gen Z’s feelings of “not fitting in” are often rooted in their sensitivity, neurodivergence, and emotional depth. From spiritual experiences to early identity crises, this generation is pushing back on outdated systems and demanding more honest, empathetic engagement—from brands, educators, and researchers alike. For marketers and researchers looking to connect with Gen Z in ways that truly resonate, this piece is both a wake-up call and a guide. […]

Global

From Focus Groups to Roblox: The Evolution of Digital Immersive Research Methodologies

Immersive research is moving beyond gimmicks and into the mainstream, transforming how we engage participants and uncover deeper insights. This article explores how custom-built virtual environments—ranging from a futuristic Roblox retail world to gamified sustainability labs—create psychological safety, heighten engagement, and spark more authentic responses than traditional methods. From testing AI beauty assistants to exploring Gen Z’s vision for retail, immersive research is delivering scalable, cost-effective, and emotionally rich insights. If you’re a marketer or researcher looking to future-proof your approach, this is a must-read on where qualitative research is heading next. […]