Progressive Focusing
Analysis should not necessarily be delayed until all information is collected. Rather, the consultant (usually with the client) sometimes begins to analyze the information soon after data collection has started. The analysis itself can help determine the type of further information that should be collected and additional methods that should be used. Hypotheses, themes and images can be identified in a preliminary manner. They are then subjected to progressively closer scrutiny. Specific hypotheses are confirmed or disproved with subsequent data. The process of “progressive focusing” can serve as a valuable guideline for this important phase of a consultative process.
There are typically three stages in progressive focusing:
(1) observation
(2) directed inquiry
(3) search for explanation.
During the first stage, a consultant identifies a wide variety of images and impressions. Incidents that have been particularly intriguing are described, recurring trends are noted, and issues frequently arising in discussions or interviews are identified.
During the second stage, a consultant selects specific topics for more sustained and intensive inquiry. A change of emphasis accompanies this development. During the first, exploratory stage, the consultant has become knowledgeable about the scheme. This general level of knowledge enables the consultant’s questioning during the second stage to be more focused; communication to be more coherent and relaxed; and, in general, observation and inquiry to be more directed, systematic, and selective. The third stage consists of the consultant seeking general principles underlying the organization of the problem being addressed, spotting patterns of cause and effect within its operation, and placing individual findings within a broader explanatory context.
STP and TMR Models of Analysis
While there are few guiding principles for information analysis, other than being responsive to the client’s concerns and beginning the analysis at an early point in the data gathering process, several organizing schemes are found to be of value.
