Much has been written in recent years about using computers packages to assist qualitative data analysis. The focus has been on the implications of this development for the analytical process. This paper describes the use of NUD*IST in a recently completed study of the experiences of chronically ill young people, and assesses the epistemological effects of its usage. As well as providing basic practical information on some of NUD*IST's functions, whilst highlighting one particular way of utilising the package, the paper addresses some of the methodological issues raised in the CAQDAS debate by drawing on this ‘real-life’ experience.