Exploratory Study of the New Generation of Qualitative Methodologies : Innovative Subject Oriented Approaches

Abstract

In a context where in-depth elucidation of customer behaviors and preferences is of crucial importance to companies operating in an increasingly competitive business environment, this study proposes an innovative human-centered approach. Inspired by the epistemological limitations inherent in the quantitative approach, which is often considered objective but neglects the nuances of the relationship between observer and observed, among other aspects, this research aims to transcend these gaps by exploring new qualitative research methods that are innovative and adaptive to changing environments.

The primary objective of this study is to propose creative data collection techniques that are part of an innovative qualitative approach that focuses on the subject, in contrast to traditional object-centric approaches, and emphasizes customers, rather than products or services, as opposed to conventional methods.

To achieve this objective, three new qualitative research methods were explored: netnography, Chinese portrait and experiential surveys.

These contemporary qualitative approaches lie at the intersection of constructivist and interpretivist paradigms, which emphasize subjectivity and individuals’ lived experiences (Guba & Lincoln, 2021). Moreover, methodologies such as netnography find their roots in the theory of virtual communities, while the Chinese portrait can be linked to the theories of projection and metaphor developed by Lakoff and Johnson (2008). By leveraging these theoretical frameworks, this article explores how these tools enable a richer and more nuanced analysis of consumer behavior.

The results of this study highlight the significant contribution these methods can bring to our understanding of consumer purchasing behavior and preferences. Netnography enables in-depth analysis of customers' online interactions with different brands, products and content, providing valuable insights into emerging trends and virtual communities. Chinese portraits, by constructing fictional profiles of ideal customers, offer a unique perspective on customer expectations and motivations. As for experiential surveys, by engaging participants in simulated scenarios, they enable an immersive exploration of customer experiences.

The practical implications of this research are significantly relevant for businesses aiming to better understand and meet customer expectations. By adopting a diverse approach, companies can develop more targeted strategies and design products or services that are better aligned with customer needs. This study offers nuanced and contextualized perspectives on the phenomena under study, highlighting their relevance and applicability. It provides an original academic contribution by elucidating the advantages and limitations of new methods, thus promoting the development of more inclusive and holistic research methodologies for studying consumer behaviors.

Keywords : Qualitative methodology – netnography - chinese portrait - experiential surveys - marketing

JEL Classification : M00

Paper type : Theoretical Research