Looking back: ten years of visual qualitative research

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to reflect on the development of visual qualitative research in organizations and management over the past ten years, the experience of editing a special issue of Qualitative Research in Organizations and Management entitled “Exploring the visual in organizations and management”, and the potential contributions this journal could make to the advancement of this significant area of research. Design/methodology/approach – This paper provides an overview and critical reflections on visual qualitative research in the study of organizations and management. Findings – The authors note that organization studies have been slow to develop visual research compared to other disciplines, especially the humanities and branches of the social sciences. However, development has been rapid over the past decade, and the authors comment on the diverse visual empirical material and the range of conceptual approaches. Research limitations/implications – The paper is a condensed reflection. It predicts a “mainstreaming” of visual research in future years and an increased integration of the visual into the study of management processes and organizations. Practical implications – This piece provides useful directions and references for researchers new to the field and different ways of thinking the visual and visual methodologies. Originality/value – The paper provides a rapid overview of the state of visual research in organizations and management studies.

Branding with Vlogs, Factors Affecting Their Success

“…New information technologies affect media culture and the way images are used (Becker, 2004;Jenkins 2006), and the visuals have become a big part of our daily life, especially on the internet and in social media Fahmy et al, 2014;Adami & Jewitt (2016). The digital image form has changed people's relationship, and by digital images, we memorialize social and organizational life Davison, McLean, Warren (2015). According to previous research, the role of practitioners is changing and they require more competencies to be successful in their communication roles Zerfass et al, (2007), (2013) in Tench & Moreno, (2015).…”

Facilitating Interviews in Qualitative Research With Visual Tools: A Typology

“…Examples include reflexive photography, which involves reflective interviewing to elicit the meaning behind photos participants have taken (Close, 2007), and photo novella and Photovoice, which involve engaging participants to create a story about their photo, often to stimulate awareness or social change (Close, 2007). Photographs can stimulate an emotional connection to their content, enhancing their impact relative to other data forms (Davison et al, 2015).…”

“…An extensive range of visual tools has been employed in the field of qualitative research (Banks, 2008; Davison, McLean, & Warren, 2015). Knowing which visual tools and methodologies exist and how to select the most appropriate one to achieve one’s qualitative research aims can be challenging.…”

Disability “In-Justice”: The Benefits and Challenges of “Yarning” With Young People Undergoing Diagnostic Assessment for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder in a Youth Detention Center

“…The use of a “toolbox” of interviewing techniques such as drawing and writing and the use of pictures have been identified as critical to seeking the views of children who are subject to health assessments or research (Bryan et al, 2019; Lees et al, 2017; Lys, Gesink, Strike, & Larkin, 2018). Furthermore, the merits of interviewing children who are able to move around in what is termed by Irwin and Johnson (2005, p. 826) as having a “kinetic conversation” and the use of visual tools have been explored (Glegg, 2019; Davison, McLean, & Warren, 2015). These techniques facilitate relationships and provide opportunities for participants to express their thoughts and feelings in a nonthreatening and honest way (Driessnack, 2006; Glegg, 2019; Horstman et al, 2008).…”