The design, analysis and interpretation of repertory grids

Abstract

This paper is intended for those with some knowledge of the repertory grid technique who would like to experiment for themselves with new forms of grid. It is argued that because the technique is quite powerful and the basic principles of its design are easy to grasp there is some danger in it being used inappropriately. Inappropriate applications may be harmful both to those involved directly, and to the general reputation of the technique itself. The paper therefore surveys a range of alternatives in the design of grids, and discusses the factors that are important to consider in these cases. But even if a design has been produced which is inherently “good”, any applications based on this will be of doubtful value unless prior thought has been given to the availability of analytic techniques, and to the means of interpretation of the results. Hence the paper outlines a number of approaches to the analysis of grids (both manual and computer based), and it also illustrates the possible process of interpretation in a number of cases.