http://pespmc1.vub.ac.be/ASC/DELPHI_METHO.html (PC Press Internet CD, 03/1996)
DELPHI METHOD
______________________________________________________Parent Node(s): ASC Glossary on Cybernetics
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DELPHI METHOD
(l) A group communication structure used to
facilitate communication on a specific task. The method usually
involves anonymity of responses, feedback to the group as a whole
of individual and/or collective views and the opportunity for any
respondent to modify an earlier judgment. The method is usually
conducted asyncronously via paper and mail but can be executed
within a computerized conferencing environment. At the essence
of the method is the question of how best to tailor the
communication process to suit the situation. The Delphi method
was originally developed at the RAND Corporation by Olaf Helmer
and Norman Dalkey. (Murray Turoff) (2) A technique to arrive at
a group position regarding an issue under investigation, the
Delphi method consists of a series of repeated interrogations,
usually by means of questionnaires, of a group of individuals
whose opinions or judgments are of interest. After the initial
interrogation of each individual, each subsequent interrogation
is accompanied by information regarding the preceding round of
replies, usually presented anonymously. The individual is thus
encouraged to reconsider and, if appropriate, to change his
previous reply in light of the replies of other members of the
group. After two or three rounds, the group position is
determined by averaging. (IIASA)