NVivo FAQs and Resources

Here are the answers to our most frequently asked NVivo questions.

  1. Open NVivo
  2. Select NVivo > Licensing > Replace License
  3. Enter the new license key
  4. Click OK
  5. Activate the new license

Yes - NVivo is backwards compatible. 

NVivo versions are identified by a major number (the number before the decimal point, e.g. version 11 or 12, or release 1) and a minor number (the number after the decimal point, e.g. the 5 in version 12.5 or release 1.5).

Projects created in older major versions such as NVivo 12 can be opened in newer major version. The older-version project file is copied and the copy formatted for the newer version—the original file is not changed.

Projects created in newer major versions cannot be opened in older major versions—e.g. you cannot open NVivo 14 projects in NVivo version 12.

Minor versions are also compatible. For example you can open a project created in NVivo release 1.4 in release 1.5, and vice versa (with the exception, noted above, that release 1.6 and following projects cannot be opened in release 1.5 or earlier)


If you are on a University-managed device, you can find NVivo in the Self Service portal.

On a personal device, request the NVivo Codes. You will be sent instructions on how to download the software.


It is possible to move projects between the NVivo Windows and Mac platforms provided they have the same major version, eg Version 14. However, while you can successfully convert a project on a one-off basis, it is not recommended that you convert between the formats on an ongoing basis.


Yes - you find find resources via the link below.


You should contact the IS Helpline for support in the first instance. 

You can also contact Lumivero Customer Support via the link below. 


Unfortunately, our license does not cover NVivo Collaboration. Please contact Lumivero directly to purchase or demo.


Unfortunately, our license does not cover NVivo Transcription. Please contact Lumivero directly to purchase or demo.

If you are in the School of Social and Political Science, please contact your local IT Team for more information.


Use of our site license software outwith the UK and Ireland is limited to 3 months. To use NVivo outwith the UK and ROI for more than 3 months, please contact Lumivero directly.


No, it may not be used for commercial purposes. Our license is for University work, non-commercial research, private study or review/criticism.


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