Biometrics - Buro Jansen & Janssen

4 Methodology
4.1 Qualitative Research
Qualitative research is an investigative methodology. It involves an in‐depth,
comprehensive understanding of human behaviour and the reasons that govern human
behaviour. It tries to investigate the why and how of decision making and tries to
understand peopleʹs interpretations [Key, J.P., Oklahoma State University, 1997]. Therefore
when conducting qualitative research a smaller and focused samples are required. Detailed
data is gathered usually through open‐ended questions that provide direct quotations. The
human is the primary collection instrument. The interviewer is an integral part of the
research. Research is usually conducted in the natural environment under natural
conditions. Data derived from these case studies are then categorised into patterns, a way
to organise and report results. When conducting a qualitative research, one seeks a wide
understanding of the entire situation. During the research different theories evolve. The
idea behind qualitative research is to gain ʹrealʹ, ʹrichʹ, and ʹdeepʹ data. Data gathered from
qualitative research are perceptions of the people in a certain setting.
4.2 Case Studies
Case studies are detailed investigations of individuals, groups, institutions or other social
units. When a researcher decided to analyse a case study, one focuses on an individual case
and not the whole population of cases. The focus doesnʹt lie on generalisation, but on
understanding the particulars of the case. A case study focuses within a certain frame,
usually under natural conditions, so that the system can be understood in its own
circumstances.
4.3 Empirical Research
When I started with my research, I firstly decided my cases studies. I had read several
articles about recent developments regarding biometric technologies in public spaces.
Biometrics are implemented in various places, but mostly one encounters these
technologies in private companies. These case studies are particularly interesting, since
they are the first public spaces in the Netherlands, where biometric technologies have been
set up for security reasons. All three case studies have been heavily represented and
publicised in the media. In total I chose three case studies.
My case studies concern three different settings:
1. A disco in Puttershoek, where a finger scan and face scan are taken
2. A swimming pool in Ridderkerk, where they also use the same biometric technology at
the entrance
3. A disco in Rotterdam, where VIP – members can implant a RFID ‐tag in their bodies
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