1. When a topic needs to be explored. This occurs when there is insufficient information available to identify variables or to know how local people identify them.

2. When the question begins with "how" or "what." These are the questions when the critical elements in a situation and their relationship to each other cannot be identified.

3. When there is a need for a detailed view. Situations may be so site specific that general information, especially information that covers a larger area or very many people, may not provide insight into the issue being investigated. There are times when only detailed information on a limited topic is useful.

4. When there is a need to study individuals in their natural setting. Without access to the environment of the person providing answers, it may not be possible to know what questions should be asked or to understand the context for the answers given. If participants are removed from their setting, it may lead to contrived findings that are out of context.

5. When there is a need to emphasize the researcher's role as a partner instead of as an expert. There is growing recognition that research needs to be collaborative with all parties that stand to benefit. People have limited tolerance for experts who pass judgment on them. People increasingly are demanding that they be allowed to articulate their own stories.