Issues to Consider

Use Focus Groups

Use In-Depth Interviews

Characteristics of respondents (homogeneous/heterogeneous)

When respondents are fairly similar in characteristics that may affect ease of discussion (literacy skills, language, culture, gender socioeconomic status, etc.)

When respondents differ a lot in characteristics that may affect ease of discussion (literacy skills, language, culture,gender, socioeconomic status, etc.)

Tasks that involve getting reactions to draft materials

When amount of material to be reviewed is limited. When there is no need to observe navigation through the document or assess comprehension.

When there 's a lot of print material to be reviewed. When there is need to observe navigation through the document or assess comprehension.

Effects of being in a group

When interaction of respondents may be helpful, such as providing more information or triggering new ideas.

When group interaction would inhibit respondents.

Sensitivity of the topics to be discussed

When respondents feel comfortable discussing the topics openly in a group without holding back or being cautious.

When respondents would not feel comfortable discussing the topics in a group.

Depth of individual responses

When brief responses from individual respondents are adequate.

When the topic requires in-depth responses from individuals or intensive follow-up questions.

Continuity and connections among topics

When only one or two topics are being examined in-depth. When it is not important to know how a series of attitudes and behaviors are linked together.

When complex topics are being examined. When it is important to know how a series of attitudes or behaviors link together

Logistics

Respondents can be assembled in one location.

Respondents cannot be assembled in one location due to where they live or for other reasons.

Source: McGee J. Writing and Designing Print Materials for Beneficiaries: A Guide for State Medicaid Agencies. Baltimore, MD: Health Care Financing Administration, Center for Medicaid and State Operations. HCFA Publication Number 10145. October 1999.