A Local-State Government Spatial Data Sharing Partnership

A Local-State Spatial Data Sharing Partnership Model to Facilitate SDI Development
Case studies can be exploratory, explanatory or descriptive (Yin 1993). Exploratory case
studies by their nature discover new theory. The hypotheses are developed progressively,
and often after the completion of the data collection. However, they are sometimes
criticised for lacking rigour and structure. The exploratory or descriptive approaches such
as the example described by Williamson and Fourie (1998), provide an useful framework
by which the cases can be described and classified. This thesis has adopted the descriptive
and explanatory approach for analysing and describing the data sharing partnerships as it
allows a more rigorous framework by which to classify the partnerships.
4.3.3 Quantitative Methods
Quantitative research uses numbers and statistical methods to explain and validate
phenomena. Quantitative methods focus on “measurements and amounts (more or less,
larger or smaller, often or seldom, similar or different) of the characteristics displayed by
people and events that the researcher studies” (Thomas 2003, p. 1).
The design approach and application of quantitative methods may differ significantly from
a qualitative approach, but they may also converge. For example, both methods may
utilise the use of theories as the basis for their design. For quantitative studies, a theory
can help define the research questions, which then define the research variables or factors,
and finally the instruments to measure these variables. This deductive approach becomes
a framework for the entire study and an organizing model for the research questions and
data collection procedures (Creswell 2003).
Quantitative research may use a variety of strategies including the conduct of surveys or
experiments. In the case of a survey or questionnaire, a number of target variables relating
to the research questions are firstly defined and then data is collected via an appropriate
method, analysed and presented. Experiments consist of treating objects in a defined way
and then determining how the treatment is influenced under a variety of conditions
(Thomas 2003). The strength of quantitative strategies lies in their ability to efficiently
include a large number of participants through instruments such as surveys, and then the
ability to analyse those variables comprehensively and quickly using computing methods.
It also provides the potential to assist in identification of key factors, correlations and
possible trends.
4.3.4 A Mixed Method Approach – Best of Both Worlds
The debate over the benefits of qualitative versus quantitative methods continues, with the
proponents in each camp vigorously defending the benefits and rigour of each approach
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