Quantitative v qualitative
The word ‘quantitative’ refers to objective measures of definable factual characteristics such as numbers and statistics that are capable of being analysed – that is, 'quantities'. Quantities are properties that can exist as a multitude or magnitude and can be given a numerical value or compared in terms of more, less or equal.
Quantitative research can be used deductively to test a theory that can be presented in one of two ways:
- A hypothetical statement such as ‘if x then y’.
- An educated ‘guess’.
The word ‘qualitative’ refers to more subjective descriptions, views and opinions - that is 'qualities'. Qualitative properties are typically observed and cannot be assigned a numerical value.
Qualitative research generally uses a smaller sample size than quantitative research, but the information obtained can be more personal and in-depth.
Broadly, the two categories of qualitative research are exploratory and attitudinal:
- Exploratory research is used primarily to gain a greater understanding of a particular subject. It is useful for diagnosing a situation, considering alternative ideas and discovering new ones that haven’t been previously considered. The most common method of exploratory research is interviewing, where the raw data will be the transcribed answers. Another common method is a questionnaire (usually with open-ended questions).
- Attitudinal research is used to evaluate the opinions or views of individuals in a way that is subjective. Examples are questions that ask the individual to express their level of agreement with a statement, or to rank preferences.
NB Guide for Effective Benefits Management in Major Projects, published by the Infrastructure and Projects Authority in October 2017, defines qualitative as: ‘Whereby something is better measured through its quality rather than a quantitative measure. Something which is subjective or difficult to verify but is useful in understanding experiences and attitudes.’
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
New Great British Energy partnership launched
Crown estate help to turbocharge energy independence.
ECA Industry Awards 2024 shortlist revealed
22 leading businesses from across the electrotechnical and engineering services sector.
Government unveils Skills England strategy
Skills England to transform opportunities and drive growth.
New Government Hub for York Given Planning Green Light
For up to 2,600 civil servants, due for completion by 2028.
Construction Skills Certification Scheme cards
July update on Professionally Qualified and Academically Qualified Person Cards.
BSRIA Briefing 2024, November 22
Sustainable Futures: Redefining Retrofit for Net Zero Living.
The CLC on driving competency in the retrofit sector
Previously published roadmap on skills for net zero.
The first labour government King's speech in fifteen years
Construction industry reactions, support and some concern.
CIOB Retrofit of Buildings Technical Information Sheet
What retrofit is, the approach to be taken and processes to be followed.
Adapting Historic Buildings for Energy and Carbon Efficiency
Historic England advice note 18, free download published.
10 retrofit projects revisited 10 years after completion.
Information orders, building liability orders and SPVs
Key BSA terms and how they impact special purpose vehicles.
Listed despite problems with its design.
Zen and the art of cycling exploration.
Design Council Homes Taskforce launched
To support government 1.5 million homes target within UK climate commitments.