Collecting Information: Qualitative Research Methods for Solving Workplace Problems.

Outlines research basics for technical communicators collecting qualitative information in a workplace environment. Discusses: developing researchable questions from workplace experiences; searching existing literature for credible research reports; using observation, artifacts, and interviews as sources of information for answering workplace questions; planning the collection of information so that its credibility is enhanced; and balancing research credibility with business practicalities. (SR)