In the realm of research group decision-making methods, one commonly used technique is the Delphi technique (Velez-Pareja, 2003). This method involves a series of controlled questionnaires or surveys presented to a panel of experts, with the goal of obtaining a consensus or gathering opinions on a specific issue.
Another method that can be considered is the Nominal Group Technique (NGT). Like the Delphi technique, this method gathers input from multiple participants in a structured manner (Harvey & Holmes, 2012).
Now, let's compare and contrast the Delphi technique and the Nominal Group Technique:
1. Process:
- Delphi technique: The process involves a facilitator who poses a series of questions or statements to a panel of experts. The experts independently answer the questions anonymously. The responses are then summarized, and a final set of questions is formulated based on the group's feedback. This process continues until a consensus is reached.
- Nominal Group Technique: In this method, participants are physically present in a group setting. The facilitator presents a problem or question, and each participant independently generates ideas or solutions. The participants then take turns presenting their ideas, and a discussion takes place to clarify and evaluate the suggestions. Participants rank or rate the ideas, and the group finalizes a decision.
2. Anonymity:
- Delphi technique: Anonymity is key in the Delphi technique, as participants' identities are concealed to minimize influences and biases. Experts provide their inputs privately.
- Nominal Group Technique: Participants in the Nominal Group Technique openly express their ideas and opinions, eliminating anonymity.
3. Group dynamics:
- Delphi technique: The Delphi technique allows for a more asynchronous process, where experts do not need to be physically present in meetings. This helps in accommodating a larger number of participants, even from different geographical locations.
- Nominal Group Technique: The Nominal Group Technique relies on face-to-face interaction, which can benefit from group dynamics such as brainstorming and interpersonal communication.
4. Structured vs. unstructured:
- Delphi technique: The Delphi technique employs a more structured approach, with preliminary questions, feedbacks, and subsequent rounds of questionnaires, leading to a refined consensus.
- Nominal Group Technique: The Nominal Group Technique combines both structured and unstructured elements. It starts with individuals generating ideas independently, followed by structured ranking or rating to reach a final decision.
In summary, the Delphi technique emphasizes anonymity, remote participation, and iterative feedback to achieve consensus, while the Nominal Group Technique focuses on face-to-face collaboration, open discussion, and structured ranking. Both methods aim to facilitate group decision-making, but they differ in terms of process, anonymity, group dynamics, and structure. The choice of technique depends on factors such as the nature of the problem, resources available, and participant characteristics.
References
Harvey, N., & Holmes, C. A. (2012, March 21). Nominal group technique: An effective method for obtaining group consensus. International Journal of Nursing Practice, 18(2), 188–194. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1440-172x.2012.02017.x
Velez-Pareja, I. (2003). The Delphi Method (El Metodo Delphi). SSRN Electronic Journal. https://doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.420040
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