What does the Delphi method involve?

The Delphi method is a structured communication technique that harnesses the collective insights of a panel of experts to reach a consensus on specific issues or predictions. This method involves multiple rounds of questioning where the experts provide their opinions independently. After each round, the responses are aggregated and shared with the group, allowing experts to reconsider their earlier answers based on the feedback from others.

This iterative process of questioning and feedback helps refine the ideas and predictions made by the panel, increasing the accuracy and reliability of the results. The anonymity of responses often encourages experts to share their thoughts without the influence of group dynamics or peer pressure. This effectiveness in gathering expert opinions and achieving consensus is what makes the Delphi method particularly valuable in fields requiring deep insights and forecasting, like systems engineering, project management, and technology forecasting.

In contrast, real-time discussions, surveys of public opinion, and random sampling of stakeholders don't encapsulate the core essence of the Delphi method, as they either focus on direct, immediate interaction or broader public sentiment rather than structured expert consensus building.