What happens when we combine realist evaluation with Q methodology and how do we make sure that both approaches retain their integrity? Alejandro is joined by Emma Williams, an experienced evaluator, researcher and co-editor of ”Realist Evaluation: Principles and Practice”, to explore the possibilities and challenges of bringing realist thinking and Q methodology together.

Emma explains how Q methodology explores subjectivity by inviting participants to rank statements, identifying patterns and clusters of shared perspectives. Together, they consider what Q can contribute to realist questions about whatworks, for whom, in what circumstances and why; how Q can bring participants’ views into programme theory prioritisation; and how realist inquiry may extend the explanatory value of Q findings.

The conversation moves from theory to the practicalities of combining methods. Through a memorable gardening metaphor, Emma distinguishes companion planting,grafting and hybridisation as different ways of bringing approaches together. She reflects on methodological integrity, the difference between exploring existing views and testing programme-theory assumptions, the expertise and resources required, participant burden and the challenges of communicating findings. Emma also discusses her own ongoing methodological exploration and why no combination should be adopted simply because it sounds innovative.

Whether you are a realist evaluator, Q methodology researcher, programme evaluator, policy researcher, practitioner, student, supervisor or PhD researcher, thisepisode offers a thoughtful discussion of how methodological innovation can be purposeful, credible and useful in real-world evaluation.