Bazeley 2009

This article is written about the analysis of qualitative data and in specific about the use of themes.

Short introduction on the difference between categories concepts and themes (often used interchangeably). This author uses category for the descriptive and concept for the more abstract. Other authors use concept as the lowest level and category for a group of concepts (Strauss & Corbin 1998).

The author states that producing themes as a goal of research is not much use or interest. Just describing them and using some quotes from the literature to support them is not enough to be convincing.

Suggestions made to share some portions of data with a colleague to get a fresh perspective and alternative avenues to pursue. The author writes that if describing themes is what you are doing then you need to connect them to the literature and contextualise them.'Data must be challenged, extended, supported and linked to reveal their full value' p.8
Are emergent themes really emergent? If you asked questions which produced these themes then the findings are shallow and unsubstantiated. Talks about the 'garden path analysis' (Lyn Richards) just stating what you see. Move towards a Describe-Compare-Relate approach instead.
As a starting point, describe: How did people talk about this theme, how many, what's not included.  [NOTE: in my case could look at the sentiment lens in Leximancer possibly?]
Then compare differences in characteristics and boundaries for that theme. [in my study could compare different ability levels, academic levels, experience of project management levels internal vs external etc]
Then relate to themes others have already written about.

A section on creating and using displays of the data extolls the value of for developing an understanding and presenting conclusions.
Matrix displays - for detecting patterns - for facilitating comparative analysis and sometime for presenting conclusions
Flow charts and models - present conclusions
Typologies - used a a working tool and can become a final presentation tool

And finally - avoid reliance on Quotes for Evidence as this encourages superficial reporting of themes. Try not to write to the sources, voices or methods. Build a coherent argument using evidence and then '...add illustrative quotes to add interest and clarity for the reader'.(p.20)