Disadvantages of Interview Method
The method of interview, in spite of its numerous advantages, has the following limitations:
Very costly
It is a very expensive affair. When using this method, the cost per case is much higher than when using a mailed questionnaire. In general, a questionnaire costs much less than an interview. The work of collecting data can require a large number of field workers to be trained and engaged. The entire process entails a lot of expenses, so a researcher with limited financial resources finds it difficult to adopt this approach.
An interview can be costly due to the time and resources involved, such as scheduling, travel, and compensation for participants. In addition, the cost of hiring interviewers and transcribing or recording interviews can increase expenses. Furthermore, it can provide valuable insights into many fields and is an important tool for obtaining information. By using online or remote methods, standardizing or structuring interviews, and recruiting participants from accessible populations, interviews can be mitigated.
- Coordinating participant availability and scheduling
- Participant and/or interviewer travel costs
- Participants are compensated for their time
- Interviewers should be trained or hired
- Interview transcription or recording
- Conducting an analysis of interview data
- When conducting large-scale or long-term research, these costs can add up and become significant.