Two innovative methods for collecting and analyzing qualitative data are vignettes and pre-structured cases. Vignettes are descriptions of situations or problems written by a professional, with a suggested outline and comments provided by a researcher. Advantages of this method are strength of impact of the written descriptions and efficiency of use of researchers' time; limitations are possible bias or reluctance on the part of the professional, and necessity of a good working relationship between professional and researcher. Suggested applications of this technique include formal research, problem solving, and policy planning. Illustrations of the use of this technique in a teacher center show the vividness of descriptions, as well as the potential for effective intervention. In the pre-structured case method, the researcher writes a case outline, including a display format, before collecting any data. The data, when collected, are entered directly into the display format. Advantages of this method include efficiency of use of researchers' time, and availability of interim feedback and cross-case analysis. Limitations include necessity of knowledgeable, experienced researchers; and risk of researcher bias and of drawing conclusions too soon. Suggested applications of this method include evaluation studies and studies testing theoretical models. It is also suggested that pairs of researchers be used to limit possible bias and "tunnel vision"; and that transcribed, rather than coded, field notes, be entered. (JGL)