Installation and Setup

A. Step 1: Download QualCoder

  1. Go to the official QualCoder GitHub repository
  2. Scroll down to the latest version (version 3.8.2)
  3. Download the appropriate file for your operating system:
    • macOS: .dmg file (e.g. QualCoder_3_8_2_macOs_arm64.dmg file) hierarchy chart

B. Step 2: Install the Software

  1. Open the .dmg file
  2. Drag QualCoder into the Applications folder
  3. If the software is blocked, go to:
    • System Settings → Privacy & Security
    • Click “Open Anyway”
  4. Follow the installation prompts
  5. Once installed, launch QualCoder

C. Settings in QualCoder

Before starting your analysis, it is helpful to configure a few basic settings in QualCoder. These settings ensure that your work is properly tracked and that the interface is comfortable to use.\

  1. Set the Coder Name. QualCoder assigns a coder name to every code you apply. This is useful for tracking who performed the coding.
    • Go to Project > Settings hierarchy chart
    • In the Current coder field, click on the Change button (beside Current Coder). hierarchy chart
    • In the Coders dialog box: hierarchy chart
      • Click New
      • Enter your name or initial
      • Click OK
    • Select your name or initial in the Coder dialogue box and click OK hierarchy chart
  2. Configure Language and Appearance. You can adjust the interface to suit your preferences.
    • Options:
      • Select your preferred language (e.g., English, Spanish, French, German, Italian)
      • Adjust font type and size for better readability hierarchy chart
  3. Manage Backups and Performance. These settings help ensure your project runs smoothly and your data is protected.
    • Backups. Ensure that backups are enabled in Settings to prevent data loss
    • Project Directory. Choose a folder on your local drive for storing projects
    • Important: Avoid running QualCoder projects directly from cloud-synced folders (e.g., OneDrive or Dropbox), as this may corrupt the database.
      • Default Fragment Size (for large files) If your computer is slower or your files are large:
      • Reduce the fragment size (default: 50,000 characters)
      • This allows files to load in smaller sections hierarchy chart

NEXT STEP: Basic Coding in QualCoder