In other words, one has the advantage of providing for both an objective and more interpretive and subjective approach to the research. However, one must also take into account that both methods have certain disadvantages that must be taken cognizance of in choosing to combine these two methodological strategies in any specific research. This means that in effect the advantage of combining these two methods is dependent on the type of research that is intended and required. One would not for instance apply a mixed or combined approach to a study of patient's views and feelings, as this would be more suitable to a qualitative methodology. In other words, the central disadvantage in using a combined method lies in the possibly that such as approach would not be appropriate to the type of research being conducted. In essence this means that a combined methodology is not always the best research route to take.

Furthermore, in choosing a combined approach one must also be fully aware of the advantages and disadvantages of each particular methodology before applying it to a certain research aim. For instance, qualitative research has been shown to be disadvantageous...

A disadvantage of quantitative research is that while results are verifiable and can be displayed in statistical charts and tables, these results may be superficial and fail to discern the depth or true nature of the subject or problem under investigation.
In conclusion, a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods can provide a wide and intensive methodology that takes advantage of the positive aspects of both methods. However, what always has to be borne in mind are the research aims and data sample being studied. The methodology that is chosen should be the one that is the most appropriate and effective in terms of the intended research outcomes.

References

Hough, Helen, and Lorna Mckee ( 2007) "The Cultural Paradigm of the Smaller Firm."

Journal of Small Business Management 42 (4).

Myers M.D. Qualitative Research in Information Systems. Retrieved August 11,

2010 from http://www.qual.auckland.ac.nz/