The Delphi Method, also known as “iterative convergence”, is a technique used in groups or teams to assist in coming to complex decisions. The group or team that gathers to conclude a decision is usually a group of experts on a certain topic. These groups go through several “rounds” where each individual will answer questions related to the decision. A facilitator is involved in between each round to read the responses anonymously to the group to introduce new information before each round. This technique is essentially a refinement process until the best decision is left.
When it comes to group decisions there are many other techniques that exist apart from the Delphi technique. The Delphi technique is a more sophisticated technique compared to others. Some other techniques are the Nominal Group Technique, pros and cons, decision trees, and simple brainstorming.
Brainstorming is a commonly used technique that has little limitations. The setting for brainstorming is just a freeform session with a liberal atmosphere where anyone is free to share their thoughts. This is already different from the Delphi Technique since it does not require or limit the decision-making process to “experts”. There are also no “rounds” during the brainstorming process just open discussions
The nominal group technique utilizes brainstorming but introduces structure to the concept. This technique allows participants to share their ideas like a standard brainstorming session except no discussions occur until all ideas and opinions have been collected. The discussion phase will go through each collected idea and as a group decide whether to eliminate the idea or keep it. Eventually, the process will narrow down to the best decision(s)
Decision trees are a common technique used in programming and can be used to help make group decisions. This technique emulates the decision-making process that our brains follow which makes it a valuable technique. This technique can be time-consuming as it attempts to forecast the outcomes of decisions in the process for each individual question. This a very different technique from the Delphi technique, it is a very logical process and is easier to understand when drawn out on paper or a board.
Pros and Cons is another technique that is very basic and requires minimal structure. The concept for this technique is simply to list out and discuss the positive and negative values for each topic in question. Usually, the question with the most pros is the better decision candidate.
All these techniques can be used for the same purpose, to derive the best decision. The selection of which technique to use can depend on the person leading the process and their preference or the topic.
References
6 group decision making techniques your team needs now. (2020, March 28). Toggl Blog. https://toggl.com/blog/6-group-decision-making-techniques-your-team-needs-now
The ultimate guide to group decision making – Techniques, tools and strategies. (n.d.). Prioritization & Roadmapping Tool | airfocus. https://airfocus.com/blog/guide-to-group-decision-making-techniques-tools/
Kevin Tepas 