ABSTRACT
Geographic Information System (GIS) databases help the reader to think and reflect spatially in ways that extend the depth and scope of understanding of context. A step beyond what is offered in standalone CAQDAS involves qualitative programs that are directly integrated into a GIS package. To start with substantive matters, GIS is a highly appropriate approach to understanding patterns in the distribution of social resources. But the further value of adopting GIS techniques is the contribution they can make in terms of extending the generalizability of social science analysis. The value of GIS for discovery in a mixed methods project is also illustrated by work on sexual health in Latin America. The issues posed by commensurability of research design, method, and approach to data analysis that continue to make mixed methods a controversial practice for some remain present when incorporating GIS in a mixed method research design.
