What does the Delphi technique involve?

The Delphi technique involves a structured method of gathering expert opinions through surveys. This approach is particularly valuable in decision-making and problem-solving contexts where knowledge and insight from various experts are critical. The process typically consists of multiple rounds of questionnaires sent to a panel of experts, with the anonymity of responses being a key feature. After each round, a facilitator summarizes the group’s responses and provides them back to the participants for further consideration. This iterative process continues until a consensus is reached or the responses converge toward a common standpoint.

The strength of the Delphi technique lies in its ability to harness a wide range of insights while minimizing the influence of groupthink, as participants do not interact face-to-face. This allows for a more thoughtful and considered reflection on the issues at hand, leading to well-rounded decisions based on expert knowledge rather than mere opinions.