# The Ethnograph

> QDA software since 1984

**Wikidata**: [Q105229773](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q105229773)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/the-ethnograph

## Summary
The Ethnograph is qualitative data analysis (QDA) software that has been available since 1984. It is a proprietary computer program designed to assist researchers with analyzing non-numerical data such as text, images, and audio recordings.

## Key Facts
- The Ethnograph is specialized software for qualitative data analysis (QDA)
- The software has been available since 1984
- It runs exclusively on the Microsoft Windows operating system
- The Ethnograph is distributed under a proprietary license model
- The software is copyrighted intellectual property
- The official website for The Ethnograph is http://www.qualisresearch.com
- It is classified as an instance of software within computer science

## FAQs
### Q: What is The Ethnograph used for?
A: The Ethnograph is used for qualitative data analysis, helping researchers systematically analyze non-numerical data sources like text documents, interviews, and observational notes.

### Q: When was The Ethnograph first released?
A: The Ethnograph has been available as QDA software since 1984, making it one of the established tools in the field of qualitative research.

### Q: What operating systems can run The Ethnograph?
A: The Ethnograph is designed to run exclusively on Microsoft Windows operating systems.

### Q: Is The Ethnograph free to use?
A: No, The Ethnograph is distributed under a proprietary license, meaning it is not free software and requires purchase or proper licensing.

## Why It Matters
The Ethnograph represents one of the early specialized software tools for qualitative research, predating many contemporary QDA applications by decades. Its longevity since 1984 demonstrates its value in the research methodology landscape, particularly for social scientists and humanists working with textual and other non-numerical data. The software has likely contributed to standardizing approaches to qualitative analysis by providing structured tools for coding, categorization, and thematic development. Its continued availability suggests it maintains relevance in an increasingly digital research environment, offering a specialized alternative to more generalized data analysis tools or newer QDA software options.

## Notable For
- Being one of the earliest specialized QDA software platforms available since 1984
- Its long-term presence in the qualitative research software market
- Exclusive compatibility with Microsoft Windows operating systems
- Maintaining a dedicated website for over two decades at qualisresearch.com
- Its proprietary licensing model in contrast to some open-source alternatives

## Body
### Software Classification
The Ethnograph is classified as software, specifically a non-tangible executable component of a computer designed for qualitative data analysis purposes.

### Technical Requirements
- Operating System: Microsoft Windows (inception: 1985-11-20)
- License Type: Proprietary license
- Copyright Status: Copyrighted intellectual property

### Purpose and Functionality
- Primary Use: Qualitative data analysis
- Target Users: Researchers, social scientists, humanists
- Data Types: Designed for analyzing non-numerical data including text, interviews, observations, and potentially multimedia sources

### Development and Distribution
- Origin: Available since 1984
- Current Distribution: Through official website http://www.qualisresearch.com
- Licensing Model: Commercial proprietary software requiring purchase or proper licensing

### Position in Research Software Landscape
The Ethnograph occupies a specific niche within the broader category of research software tools, distinguishing itself through its specialized focus on qualitative methods rather than statistical or quantitative approaches. Its established presence since the mid-1980s places it among the pioneering tools in the field of qualitative data analysis software.