This research explores how Large Language Models (LLMs) are reshaping qualitative analysis methods in software engineering research.

• LLMs offer new capabilities for analyzing unstructured data, interviews, and documentation
• They can assist researchers in coding, pattern identification, and thematic analysis
• Proper integration requires awareness of both benefits and limitations in qualitative methodologies
• Potential to significantly accelerate research while maintaining rigor and validity

For engineering teams, this represents a fundamental shift in how we can understand the human aspects of software development processes, potentially leading to better team dynamics and more effective development practices.

Applications and Implications of Large Language Models in Qualitative Analysis: A New Frontier for Empirical Software Engineering