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Enhancing the Trustworthiness of Qualitative Research in International Business

Author

Listed:
  • Rudolf R. Sinkovics

    (Manchester Business School)

  • Elfriede Penz

    (International Marketing and Management, Wirtschaftsuniversität Wien)

  • Pervez N. Ghauri

    (International Management, King’s College)

Abstract

and Key Results Reliability, validity, generalisability and objectivity are fundamental concerns for quantitative researchers. For qualitative research, however, the role of these dimensions is blurred. Some researchers argue that these dimensions are not applicable to qualitative research and a qualitative researcher’s tool chest should be geared towards trustworthiness and encompass issues such as credibility, dependability, transferability and confirmability. This paper advocates the use of formalised and software-based procedures for the analysis and interpretation of qualitative interview data. It is argued that International Business research, with a focus on international datasets, equivalence issues, multiple research environments and multiple researchers, will benefit from formalisation. The use of software programmes is deemed to help to substantiate the analysis and interpretation of textual interview data.

Suggested Citation

  • Rudolf R. Sinkovics & Elfriede Penz & Pervez N. Ghauri, 2008. "Enhancing the Trustworthiness of Qualitative Research in International Business," Management International Review, Springer, vol. 48(6), pages 689-714, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:manint:v:48:y:2008:i:6:d:10.1007_s11575-008-0103-z
    DOI: 10.1007/s11575-008-0103-z
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    References listed on IDEAS

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