Methodology-as-process: Balancing blueprints and flexibility in large qualitative research projects

This article engages with the persistent methodological challenge of balancing between blueprinting and flexibility, between pre-designed structure and responsiveness to the field. Although repeatedly acknowledged by qualitative methodologists, practical guidance on managing this balance remains limited. This is highly problematic, especially in contexts that amplify the challenge: large-scale, collaborative, comparative research. While these circumstances are increasingly common, researchers are often left to improvise while striving for methodological rigour. This article proposes methodology-as-process , a meta-methodological approach grounded in pragmatist and perspectivist thinking. Drawing on our own experience of large qualitative research projects, in particular the EU-funded CO-CREATE project, we explore how methodology-as-process enables us to navigate both anticipated and unanticipated challenges. We outline two strategies to manage these challenges: Methodological Reflexivity and Collaboratively Validated Iteration . Together, these offer a conceptual and practical vocabulary for making and justifying methodological adaptations in the design, conduct and documentation of qualitative research under complex and shifting conditions.