FSD implemented open source application to assist in processing qualitative data

In January, FSD implemented its new open source tool, Kvalikirstu 2, for processing qualitative data at ingest phase. The application was developed as part of FSD’s project Crossing Boundaries with Tools and Services (C-BoTS).

Kvalikirstu2 (logo) The application is an improved version of the original Kvalikirstu developed in 2011 to assist in processing large qualitative datasets with hundreds of text files. The data produced by Kvalikirstu 2 align with current requirements for long-term preservation. The features of Kvalikirstu 2 include a graphical user interface for processing and ODT file support. With Kvalikirstu, many of the phases of data processing, such as categorising background information and converting files, can be streamlined.

"Kvalikirstu 2 allows users to make mass changes to data files. This saves a lot of time, for example, when files don’t have to be renamed one by one. The user interface is intuitive and quick to learn," Research Assistant Henna Räsänen says.

Kvalikirstu also helps the secondary user of data. The old Kvalikirstu already produced an HTML index based on the background information of the data file to help users in browsing the data. The index created by Kvalikirstu 2 also includes a search interface which allows secondary users to search for specific words or phrases within the data files. Data files can also be sorted according to the background information provided.

Kvalikirstu 2 is available on Bitbucket as open source (bitbucket.org/tietoarkisto/kvalikirstu2). An interactive example view demonstrates viewing the data on a web browser. Kvalikirstu can be modified to fit the needs of other data repositories. The application has been localised into English and the user interface can be localised into other languages.