Much of current software is based on an algorithmic approach ill suited for the openended analysis using qualitative data that is typical of anthropological research. The potential for effective analysis of qualitative data exists, but will need a different kind of software that is more exploratory in its orientation. A limited survey of what anthropologists are doing with computing shows that there is interest in programs that enable one to work and deal effectively with qualitative data. Keywords: qualitative data analysis, text processing, information processing, multimedia, data representation.
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