Everybody knows focus group transcripts are a drag. They're a drag to type and a drag to read. If you do qualitative, you can't avoid them - gotta have those verbatims - but a new PC-based software program might Session Analyst, which combines a word processor with a make them easier to slog through.

With the aid of a typist using the software, called FocusReports, a moderator can record, real-time, a near-complete transcription  or compile an accurate sketch of a qualitative discussion to guide later transcription and verbatim searches.FocusReports consists of two modules, the Session Processor, which is used to record group proceedings, and the Session Analyst, which combines a word processor with a variety of text analysis functions.

The moderator simply sets up a typist at a computer equipped with the software, briefs them on the topics that will be covered and any jargon to be aware of, and the typist takes it from there, recording the comments of each participant as he or she watches the group from the back room.The software was created by Perseus Development Corp., Needham, Mass., and is being marketed by Bernett Research Services, Boston.

Andrew Hayes, vice president of marketing, Bernett Research Services, says FocusReports isn't intended to take the place of transcripts. "It's more an abridged transcript or advanced notetaking program. We think that it will be a nice tool for turning reports around quickly and capturing the highlights.

I had a chance to test-drive the program recently, typing in my own little imaginary focus group session featuring my coworkers and I. Sadly, none of it can be reprinted here - this is a family magazine, after all. I found the program easy to use and actually kind of fun.

Obviously, as with any new program, typists will need some time to get acquainted with it, but if a Windows rookie like me (I'm a Mac man, through and through) can get the progr...