Delphi Technique for Expert Consensus

Quick Definition:

The Delphi Technique is a structured communication method, originally developed as a systematic, interactive forecasting method which relies on a panel of experts.

Delphi Technique

The Delphi Process

  1. Questionnaire: Experts are sent a questionnaire on a specific topic.
  2. Anonymous Responses: Experts provide their opinions anonymously.
  3. Summary and Feedback: A facilitator summarizes the responses and sends them back to the experts.
  4. Iteration: Experts can revise their opinions based on the group’s feedback. This process is repeated until consensus is reached.

Why Use It?

The Delphi technique avoids “groupthink” and ensures that all expert opinions are considered equally, regardless of their status or location.