The Delphi technique is useful when:
¾ Face-to-face discussions are impractical
¾ Disagreements and conflict are likely to impair communication
¾ Certain individuals might severely dominate group discussion
¾ Groupthink is a probable outcome of the group process
The Nominal group technique
The nominal group technique helps groups generate ideas and evaluate and select solutions. This
technique is a structured group decision making technique and restricts discussion or interpersonal
communication during the decision making process. Group members are physically present, but members
operate independently.
Process of the nominal group technique
¾ A group of 7–10 members is convened to discuss a particular problem
¾ After the problem is understood, individuals silently generate ideas in writing
¾ Each member then offers one idea from his or her list
¾ Ideas are recorded on a blackboard or flip chart and are not discussed at this stage
¾ Once all ideas are elicited, the group discuss them
¾ Anyone may criticize or defend any item
¾ Clarification is then provided as well as general agreement or disagreement with the idea
This technique is appropriate for situations in which groups may be affected by a dominant person,
conformity, or groupthink, because it minimizes these effects.