Getting the Recipe Right: Developing and Maintaining an Appropriate Analytical Framework in a Constructivist Grounded Theory Methodology

This case study presents an example of doctoral research exploring the concepts of ethics and responsibility in business leaders in the context of rural Moray using a constructivist grounded theory methodology. A key focus is the exploration of the rationale for using this methodology and the associated analytical framework developed, along with consideration of symbolic interactionism in the analysis, providing depth and rigor in the interpretation of qualitative data gathered. The case study also highlights the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the subsequent adaption of methods used to collect interview data using virtual methods. The challenges presented are discussed, including the need to adapt the sampling strategy, ethical approvals, and securing the trust of participants, as well as practical challenges relating to the use and availability of technology. In summary, this case offers a reflection on the analytical framework applied and how it was maintained and adapted through the pandemic in order to continue the research. An outline of the processes applied is presented, along with key lessons learned and some brief reflections for the future,