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Combining problem structuring methods to conduct applied research: a mixed methods approach to studying fitness-to-drive in the UK

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  • G A Hindle

    (University of Warwick)

  • L A Franco

    (University of Warwick)

Abstract

This paper describes a mixed methods approach using problem structuring methods to conduct applied research into fitness-to-drive arrangements within the UK Department for Transport. Computer-supported group causal mapping was used to collect and structure qualitative data from stakeholder groups concerning the delivery of medical standards on fitness-to-drive. The data were subsequently coded and analysed using the modelling language of soft systems methodology. This enabled data to be linked to the concept of a ‘fitness-to-drive system’ and developed further in the form of systems models based on alternative worldviews. The paper reports on the process of developing and implementing the approach and discusses issues concerning the conduct of mixed methods research using problem structuring methods.

Suggested Citation

  • G A Hindle & L A Franco, 2009. "Combining problem structuring methods to conduct applied research: a mixed methods approach to studying fitness-to-drive in the UK," Journal of the Operational Research Society, Palgrave Macmillan;The OR Society, vol. 60(12), pages 1637-1648, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:pal:jorsoc:v:60:y:2009:i:12:d:10.1057_jors.2008.125
    DOI: 10.1057/jors.2008.125
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    2. Mirna de Lima Medeiros & Leonardo Augusto Amaral Terra & João Luiz Passador, 2020. "Geographical indications and territorial development: A soft‐system methodology analysis of the Serro Case," Systems Research and Behavioral Science, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 37(1), pages 82-96, January.
    3. Hindle, Giles A. & Vidgen, Richard, 2018. "Developing a business analytics methodology: A case study in the foodbank sector," European Journal of Operational Research, Elsevier, vol. 268(3), pages 836-851.
    4. Henao, Felipe & Franco, L. Alberto, 2016. "Unpacking multimethodology: Impacts of a community development intervention," European Journal of Operational Research, Elsevier, vol. 253(3), pages 681-696.
    5. Ryan Armstrong & Guillermo Jiménez, 2022. "Micro-Skills for Learning Soft Systems Methodology? Challenges and Opportunities in an Undergraduate Dissertation Project," Systemic Practice and Action Research, Springer, vol. 35(6), pages 831-853, December.
    6. Alireza Moumivand & Adel Azar & Abbas Toloie Eshlaghy, 2022. "Combined soft system methodology and agent‐based simulation for multi‐methodological modelling," Systems Research and Behavioral Science, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 39(2), pages 200-217, March.
    7. Yearworth, Mike & White, Leroy, 2013. "The uses of qualitative data in multimethodology: Developing causal loop diagrams during the coding process," European Journal of Operational Research, Elsevier, vol. 231(1), pages 151-161.
    8. Ana María González & Harrison Sandoval & Pilar Acosta & Felipe Henao, 2016. "On the Acceptance and Sustainability of Renewable Energy Projects—A Systems Thinking Perspective," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 8(11), pages 1-21, November.

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