Difference between quantitative data and qualitative data

What is qualitative data?
Qualitative data is non-statistical and is typically unstructured or semi-structured in nature. This data isn’t necessarily measured using hard numbers used to develop graphs and charts. Instead, it is categorized based on properties, attributes, labels, and other identifiers.

Qualitative data can be used to ask the question “why.” It is investigative and is often open-ended until further research is conducted. Generating this data from qualitative research is used for theorizations, interpretations, developing hypotheses, and initial understandings.

Qualitative data can be generated through:

Texts and documents
Audio and video recordings
Images and symbols
Interview transcripts and focus groups
Observations and notes
What is quantitative data?
Contrary to qualitative data, quantitative data is statistical and is typically structured in nature – meaning it is more rigid and defined. This type of data is measured using numbers and values, which makes it a more suitable candidate for data analysis.

Whereas qualitative is open for exploration, quantitative data is much more concise and close-ended. It can be used to ask the questions “how much” or “how many,” followed by conclusive information.

Quantitative data can be generated through:

Tests
Experiments
Surveys
Market reports
Metrics

qualitative