Open AccessThe Delphi and nominal group techniques in health services research
Author(s) -
CANTRILL J. A.,
SIBBALD B.,
BUETOW S.
Publication year - 1996
Publication title -
international journal of pharmacy practice
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.42
H-Index - 37
eISSN - 2042-7174
pISSN - 0961-7671
DOI - 10.1111/j.2042-7174.1996.tb00844.x
Subject(s) - nominal group , nominal group technique , delphi method , medicine , toolbox , delphi , anonymity , reliability (semiconductor) , sample (material) , data science , medical education , management science , knowledge management , computer science , engineering , artificial intelligence , philosophy , linguistics , power (physics) , computer security , physics , chemistry , chromatography , quantum mechanics , programming language , operating system
This review examines two methodologies that are being increasingly used in health services research (HSR): the Delphi and nominal group techniques. The Delphi is a survey technique for decision making among isolated respondents while the nominal group technique (NGT) is a highly controlled small group process for the generation of ideas. Typical applications of the techniques are for the development of consensus guidelines or standards in areas where research based evidence is absent or inconclusive. We discuss methodological issues associated with these techniques, namely, sample size and composition, response rates, anonymity, feedback and consensus, and reliability and validity. We also illustrate the range of applications of the techniques in HSR, including pharmacy practice. Although not widely used to date, both methodologies are potentially valuable additions to the practice researcher's toolbox.