A qualitative data analysis platform that combines established CAQDAS methodology with opt-in AI-powered coding, sentiment analysis, and network visualizations — offering researchers the choice between fully manual analysis and AI-assisted workflows with transparent, auditable outputs.
ATLAS.ti is one of the two leading CAQDAS platforms alongside NVivo, with strong adoption in European and international research institutions. It offers AI-powered auto-coding with user-defined intent, sentiment analysis and opinion mining across documents, sophisticated network visualizations for tracing code-document-case relationships, collaborative project sharing with change tracking, detailed memoing for documenting analytical decisions, and free access to 200M+ academic papers directly within the platform. The 'Intentional AI' approach — where researchers specify their goals before AI acts — aligns well with methodological transparency requirements.
AI-assisted qualitative coding of large datasets (interviews, surveys, focus groups) where researchers want to accelerate initial coding while maintaining methodological rigor and full audit trails.
AI features rely on OpenAI's GPT models, introducing a dependency on third-party infrastructure. Full AI capabilities require additional subscription fees. The learning curve for advanced features (networks, queries) is significant. Desktop versions (Windows/Mac) and Web version have slightly different feature sets.
ATLAS.ti maintains a GDPR-compliant Data Processing Agreement with OpenAI for AI features. AI features are strictly opt-in — no data is sent to AI models unless the user explicitly activates AI Coding, AI Summaries, or AI Code Suggestions. Users can select their preferred AI processing region (US or Europe). Data is encrypted in transit and at rest using 256-bit AES encryption. No user data is used to train or improve AI models.
ATLAS.ti's AI features propose codes, cluster segments, and generate thematic summaries, but all outputs are surfaced for researcher review and approval. The tool is designed around 'Intentional AI Coding' — users define their research intent and goals before AI processes data. AI suggestions are always grounded in the source data and presented transparently. The researcher retains full analytical control.
Free trial available. Student, educator, and university licenses at reduced rates. Individual and team subscription plans. Enterprise licensing with SSO and admin controls. AI features may require additional subscription.
✓ Institutional licensing available
Editorial independence: ScriptorLabs has no commercial relationship with ATLAS.ti. This review is independent and based solely on our academic evaluation framework.