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If you have found this web site because you are looking for a company to carry out qualitative research projects, you are a fellow practitioner surfing for ideas, or simply because you enjoy the topic, then the several items below should be of interest. 

The QRCA (Qualitative Research Consultants Association) is a:

"...not-for profit organization that promotes excellence in all aspects of qualitative research. Through QRCA you have access to nearly 1000 Qualitative Research Consultants throughout the world. Our Research Consultants include focus group moderators, facilitators, interviewers, and planners in many types of qualitative research. Their expertise includes focus groups, individual depth interviews (IDI's), ethnography, observational research, usability research, idea generation, and other qualitative approaches in-person and online."  (QRCA web site)

Soundings Research belongs to the QRCA, participates on its committees and lends a helping hand in publishing its member newsletter.  If you are a practicing independent qualitative researcher, you should think seriously about joining the organization and promoting the discipline. 

The QRCA Competencies :

Without a doubt, associations exist to promote the shared interests of its members and to promote good practices. Professional airline pilots, for example, belong to the airline pilots association, or ALPA, which in part ensures that its members understand such basics as proper attitudes towards their clients, dress and decorum, as well as their professional rights, irregardless of the pilot's company. 

The QRCA, which represents independent qualitative consultants, has come up with a set of professional competencies, "...that define professional performance for qualitative research consultants."  There are eleven specific competencies that have been identified and approved by the QRCA Board.  These include, under three topical areas:

• Consulting:
  • Consulting
  • Content Knowledge
• Research:
  • Conceptualization and Design
• Research
• Interviewing
• Analysis
• Professional and Business Practices:
  • Communication
  • Professional Practices
  • Business Practices
  • Project Management/Coordination
  • Commitment to the Profession

Each of the eleven competencies is detailed in a PDF file entitled:  Professional Competencies of Qualitative Research Consultants, a copy of which can be found on and downloaded from the QRCA web site.