Strauss, A. & Corbin, J. (1994).
Grounded theory methodology: An overview.
In Denzin, N. K. & Lincoln, Y. S. (Eds.) Handbook of Qualitative Research.
CA: Sage Publications.

Theory emerges from continuous dialogue between data and analysis, which is influenced by theoretical sensitivity or the theoretical lens of the researcher. Theory can be generated or existing theories can be elaborated or modified.

Can use a combination of qualitative and quantitative analysis. The aim is conceptual density. Actual use of methodology is varied and depends on the specifics of the project, purposes/focus of researcher and characteristics of the researcher. It is a general methodology and its implementation and combination with other methods, both qualitative and quantitative, depend on researcher's interests and training and the types of data needed for theory generation or verification.

End result shoudl be conceptually dense theory with many and complex connections between concepts. Interest is in patterns of action and interaction and process, changes in patterns and relationship with changes internal or external to the process.

Predictability of theory: IF conditions are similar elsewhere, THEN patterns and processes should be the same.

Data from diverse sources to test this: IF they fit, HOW they fit, how they might NOT fit.