What is the Delphi technique?

The Delphi technique is a structured method for collecting and synthesizing expert opinions through multiple rounds of surveys. It is particularly useful in situations where consensus is needed on a specific topic or decision. The process typically involves sending out a series of questionnaires to a panel of experts, who provide their insights and opinions. After each round, a summary of the responses is shared with the participants, allowing them to reconsider their views based on the collective input. This iterative process continues until a consensus is reached or until the responses stabilize.

This method is valuable in areas where direct knowledge or experience is limited or where complex decisions need to be made, as it leverages the expertise of individuals to arrive at informed conclusions. It is used widely in areas such as policy-making, healthcare planning, and technology forecasting, among others. By collating opinions over several rounds, the Delphi technique helps to identify common ground among experts and facilitates informed decision-making.