Championing Qualitative Data: Leveraging Open-Source Tools For Ethical and Collaborative Analysis

Qualitative research is central to understanding complexity in social science, but working with unstructured data brings challenges around ethics, security, and collaboration. This presentation looks at how open-source tools, specifically LibreQDA, can support researchers in coding and analyzing qualitative data without the cost and restrictions of proprietary software. We will walk through core steps in thematic analysis, such as data collection, coding, and theme development to show how digital platforms can make these processes more efficient while maintaining methodological rigour. The session also addresses issues of sensitive data, research ethics, and the need for secure storage. By focusing on practical strategies and hands-on examples, this presentation aims to help data professionals champion qualitative data in ways that are accessible, ethical, and aligned with open science principles.