Example: Interview Protocol--Funding Model Sustainability

Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy Interview Protocol

The following interview questions are a sample from an interview protocol developed for Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy, and OER project that sought to better understand why some libraries have become members in its project (and thus contribute to its financial sustainability) and others have not. This interview was conducted via telephone with representatives of member and non-member libraries.

1. When did you first learn about the project and its funding model? How were you approached?
2. What do you remember about the project’s funding model?
3. What do you remember about the process your library undertook to decide whether or not to become a member?
4. Who were the stakeholders involved in the decision?
5. What factors were considered in determining whether or not to become a member? [PROBE: budget and structural constraints; other factors]
6. How did you view the added value or benefits of membership?
7. Is there anything that this project could be doing better to communicate or collaborate with libraries?
8. Is there anything else that would be helpful to know, that we’ve not already covered in this interview, that you wish to add?

Pointers

• Consider starting your interview with general, easy-to-answer questions and concluding with a question that asks the interviewee to add other thoughts, experiences, or ideas that he/she wants to share.