Improvements to qualitative data analysis software (QDAS) have both facilitated and complicated the qualitative research process. This technology allows us to work with a greater volume of data than ever before, but the increased volume of data frequently requires a large team to process and code. This paper presents insights on how to successfully structure and manage a team of staff in coding qualitative data. We draw on our experience in team-based coding of 154 interview transcripts for a study of school meal programs. The team consisted of four coders, three senior reviewers, and a lead analyst and external qualitative methodologist who shepherded the coding process together. Lessons learned from this study include: 1) establish a strong and supportive management structure; 2) build skills gradually by breaking training and coding into “bite-sized” pieces; and 3) develop detailed reference materials to guide your coding team.

Background: Multiple Sclerosis Adult Day Programs are non-medical service programs providing care and support to people with multiple sclerosis experiencing levels of impairment interfering with employment and activities of daily living. The purpose of this study was to identify how program participants think Multiple Sclerosis Adult Day Programs benefit them. Methods: We conducted in-depth interviews with 95 people with multiple sclerosis who were Multiple Sclerosis Adult Day program participants. Interviews occurred as part of site visits to ten (10) programs across the country. We supplemented participants' interviews with interviews of Program staff and ethnographic observation of activities at each site over one to three days. Results: Participants reported several benefits from participating in a Multiple Sclerosis Adult Day Program. Almost universally, participants explained that receiving and giving social support was the most important benefit. Other positive outcomes described included the following: increased emotional well-being; better understanding and acceptance of multiple sclerosis; practical know-how for accomplishing ordinary tasks; and increased mobility and improved motor functioning. Conclusions: Participants believe that Multiple Sclerosis Adult Day Programs have a profound influence on their psychosocial health, much of which they attribute to membership in a socially cohesive community. Clinicians and policy makers should consider these programs for people with multiple sclerosis who have unmet psychosocial needs and experience functional impairments.