Repertory Grid Technique and Honey’s Content Analysis: gathering and processing qualitative data

Abstract

Purpose – This study aims to demonstrate a rigorous approach to applying the Repertory Grid Technique (RGT) and Honey’s Content Analysis (HCA) to obtain and process qualitative data through structured interviews. Design/methodology/approach – An illustrative case study using the OpenRepGrid package from the open-source software R facilitates a deeper understanding of these techniques. The study subjects were employees of a corporate charter company. Findings – The RGT enables the identification of key attributes as perceived by interviewees regarding the phenomenon, whereas HCA clarifies how these attributes impact the desired analysis outcome. The presented case study identified constructs related to the client–supplier relationship and their impact on service performance from the provider’s perspective. Research limitations/implications – This study illustrates the use of qualitative methods based on an interpretative naturalistic approach to rigorously and systematically capture interviewees’ perspectives. Practical implications – The combination of RGT and HCA can be a valuable tool for management studies by allowing controlled researcher interference in empirical investigations. In addition, the data-driven selection of constructs by interviewees can lead to the emergence of novel theories. Social implications – Using diverse methodologies enables researchers to address complex managerial challenges that often surpass the capabilities of conventional analysis methods. Originality/value – The proposed methodology offers a robust understanding of phenomena from the interviewees’ perspectives. Consequently, this study highlights the potential of these techniques for theoretical and empirical research in the field of administration.

Keywords

• Repertory grid technique
• Honey’s content analysis
• Structured interview
• Case study
• Interorganizational governance mechanisms