Usability and application of a data integration technique (following the thread) for multi- and mixed methods research: A systematic review

摘要

Background: The scope of methodological development and innovation in multi- and mixed methods design is endless and, at times, challenging. The latter is especially true with regards to the integration of data generated through different methods. About a decade ago, Professor Jo Moran-Ellis and her colleagues at the University of Sussex suggested a framework for analytical integration known as "following a thread." Despite an increased focus within health services research on different perspectives and approaches to successful data integration, the framework's usability and application have not yet been well described.