Background Phenomenology is a useful methodological approach in qualitative nursing research. It enables researchers to put aside their perceptions of a phenomenon and give meaning to a participant’s experiences. Exploring the experiences of others enables previously unavailable insights to be discovered.

Aim To delineate the implementation of Colaizzi’s (1978) method of data analysis in descriptive phenomenological nursing research.

Discussion The use of Colaizzi’s method of data analysis enabled new knowledge to be revealed and provided insights into the experiences of nurse academics teaching on satellite campuses. Local adaptation of the nursing curriculum and additional unnoticed responsibilities had not been identified previously and warrant further research.

Conclusion Colaizzi’s (1978) method of data analysis is rigorous and robust, and therefore a qualitative method that ensures the credibility and reliability of its results. It allows researchers to reveal emergent themes and their interwoven relationships. Researchers using a descriptive phenomenological approach should consider using this method as a clear and logical process through which the fundamental structure of an experience can be explored.

Implications for research Colaizzi’s phenomenological methodology can be used reliably to understand people’s experiences. This may prove beneficial in the development of therapeutic policy and the provision of patient-centred care.