explore · Data Collection · 45–75 min · 1-1 people · low energy

Key Informant Interviews

Key informant interviews involve interviewing individuals with particularly informed perspectives on a specific program or topic. This method provides valuable insights from those with specialized knowledge.

When to use Key Informant Interviews

Use when you need to gather expert opinions and perspectives from individuals with in-depth knowledge of a particular subject.

What it solves

Lack of expert insights, need for specialized knowledge.

How to run Key Informant Interviews, step by step

  1. Identify key informants with relevant expertise. (30 minutes)
  2. Develop an interview guide with questions tailored to the informant's expertise. (60 minutes)
  3. Conduct the interview, allowing the informant to share their knowledge and insights. (45-75 minutes)
  4. Take detailed notes, capturing the key points and any supporting evidence. (During interview)
  5. Analyze the data by identifying key themes, insights, and recommendations. (Variable)

Materials needed

  • Interview guide tailored to the informant's expertise
  • Notebook and pen or computer for notes

Facilitator tips

  • Establish credibility and rapport with the informant.
  • Listen actively and probe for more detail when needed.

Common pitfalls

  • Informant bias can skew the results.
  • Triangulate the data with other sources to validate the findings.

Variations

  • Conduct a series of interviews with different key informants to gather a range of perspectives.
  • Use a Delphi method to synthesize the opinions of multiple experts.

Running it online or hybrid

Schedule shorter, focused sessions and use screen sharing to review documents together.

What it produces

Interview transcript with expert opinions and insights.

Origin

Adapted from BetterEvaluation.org — source

Build a session around Key Informant Interviews

METODIC places Key Informant Interviews inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.

Generate a session with Key Informant Interviews · Try METODIC free