BU Research Blog

‘Talk and draw’ is a relatively new qualitative data collection method in management research. Dr Julie Robson and Samreen Ashraf from the Business School (FOM) have used this method in four separate studies, most recently in their project ‘Perceptions and use of pension savings: the case of South Asian consumers living in the UK’ funded by the Academy of Marketing.

Using this technique, interviewees were asked to draw a picture in advance of an interview. The picture was to represent what comes to mind when the interviewee thinks about their pension and retirement. Interviewees were asked to talk about their picture and what the images meant to them during the interview. While this method was advantageous for this research, helping interviewees to think more broadly about the topic and surface thoughts that may not have initially come to mind in an interview, it also brought some challenges which we thought we would share to help other researchers thinking about using this technique.

• The need to produce a masterpiece

Initially prospective interviewees expressed concern that they were not very good at drawing. Some were reluctant to take part thinking that the quality of the drawing was important. It was therefore necessary to reassure interviewees up-front that we were interested in the content of the drawing and what the images represent rather than the production of a masterpiece.

• Producing the drawing before the interview

For most people drawing is an enjoyable activity, but it does take time. Some interviewees wanted to delay the production of the drawing to the interview itself. It was important to contact interviewees prior to the interview to remind them of the need to produce their drawing in advance rather than use the time allocated for the interview.

• A final check for any additions or changes to the diagram

During the interview, interviewees reflected on their drawing and the meaning of the images they have produced. During this discussion new thoughts emerged and it therefore became evident that there was a need to check at the end of the interview if the respondent wanted to add or change anything in their diagram and ask why?

If you have used the talk and draw method or are thinking about doing so we would be very interested to hear about your experience or plans. Please contact Julie Robson (jrobson@bournmeouth.ac.uk) or Samreen Ashraf (sashraf@bournemouth.ac.uk)