The nominal group technique (NGT) and Delphi method have become very popular in their usage. These two methods have defined the way that decisions are made in a group aspect. In examining the process it can be scene that their actions are similar. However there are significant differences when completing a project or research action.
The nominal group technique provides actions that are more advantageous when time is of the essence. The decisions can me made easier because of the processes as they are shorter and not as time consuming. The group sizes are also smaller than the Delphi method. This can lead to the group having a more structured and disciplined process (Delbecq, Van De Ven, 1971). The key to these specific actions occurring is the leader. In this instance the leader must be purposeful and well informed of the actions (Delbecq, Van De Ven, 1971). This will allow the leader to provide the right amount of influence when necessary on the situation. The next aspect that will be examined is the Delphi method.
The Delphi method is more to the advantage when time is not pressing. This will allow the actions to be examined and completed in a more detailed manner. The size of the group is significant as it usually provides a more detailed response. This is because of the time allotted for research and the structure of the group itself. The group is comprised of well selected experts who are able to work on a consensus. This allows them to focus on solving the problem in a more definitive process. The actions of the process are listed below.
1. The sample consists of a "panel" of carefully selected experts representing a broad spectrum of
opinion on the topic or issues being examined.
2. Participants are usually anonymous
3. The "moderator" (i.e. researcher) constructs a series of structured questionnaires and feedbacks
feedback reports for the panel over the course of the Delphi.
4. It is an iterative process often involving three to four iterations or "rounds" of questionnaires
and feedback reports.
5. There is an output typically in the form of a research report with Delphi results, the forecasts,
policy and program options with their strengths and weaknesses, recommendations to senior
management and, possibly, actions for developing and implementing the policies and programs
(Loo, 2002).
The action previously listed provides a guideline for the Delphi method. This guideline will ensure that all of the requirements are where they should be. The NGT and Delphi method have shown there value in the process and one has to have to make a decision on the best use of each. With this is mind the comparison of the two processes are listed below.
1. The facilitator or leader moderates/guides the action throughout the process.
2. The solutions are examined accordingly and are reviewed and ranked.
3. The actions of the participants are forecast orientated.
4. All of the participants are encouraged to contribute as well as agree on the final action.
All of the actions have been proven to be very effective and provide a solvent foundation in their comparison. However a contrast must be made to be given a clearer view. The clear and precise listings are provided below.
NGT
1. There is not any validation within the group of the ideas as they are not discussed jointly.
2. All of the actions have a specific time limit.
3. The thoughts or ideas are expressed individually.
4. Individuals are not anonymous in this setting.
5. The ideas or thoughts are not agreed upon as a group initially.
Delphi method
1. The ideas are discussed jointly and validated as a group.
2. There is not time limit on the actions.
3. The respondents are anonymous.
4. The leader has more into the decision making process as they provide a summary of the actions.
In competing this requirement a clear guide of what is required is shown. Meeting these requirements have provided solid process for the required actions. In this instance the best model to use would be nominal group technique. In the security field that I am employed in both of the processes are used.
However in competing the implementation of a security check for a specific violation.
The NGT action provides the best support. As the individual actions need to be private and not shared with the group as a whole in the initial action. In this way the views of the situation are given specific audience for a complex decision. This allows the investigator to have a definitive action and process that is more effective.
Reference:
Delbecq, A. L., & Van de Ven, A. H. (1971). A group
process model for problem identification and
program planning. The Journal
of Applied Behavioral Science, 7(4), 466-492.
Loo, R. (2002). The Delphi method: a powerful tool for strategic management, Policing: An
International Journal of Police Strategies & Management, Vol. 25 (4), 762 – 769. Retrieved on
October 26, 2014 from http://www.emeraldinsight.com.ctu.idm.oclc.org/doi/pdfplus/10.1108
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