![]() Initially it describes how to conduct the NGT and Delphi Technique and provides examples of their use within the pharmacy context. Therefore, it provides a useful starting point for pharmacy practice researchers new to consensus methods. The aim of this paper is to provide an overview of the NGT and Delphi technique, including the steps involved and the types of research questions best suited to each method, with examples from the pharmacy literature. The structured format of consensus methods avoids this issue. A key strength of consensus methods is the balanced participation from group members, unlike a focus group, whereby the facilitator must control for, and minimise the risk of, a dominant participant influencing the discussion. Consensus methods, however, raise potential solutions or answers to a question, which can then be prioritised or agreed upon. Focus groups are useful for investigating an issue in-depth, including the identification of problems, questions or significant issues. All methods involve interaction within a group of participants, yet they can provide different outcomes. Ĭonsensus techniques such as the NGT and Delphi Technique are superficially similar to focus groups, a commonly used method in pharmacy practice research. How consensus is defined and operationalised will vary from study to study, depending on the research objectives. Consensus methods are used in research that is directed at problem-solving, idea-generation, or determining priorities. They aim to achieve a general agreement or convergence of opinion around a particular topic. The Nominal Group Technique (NGT) and the Delphi Technique are commonly referred to as consensus methods. The Delphi technique can take weeks or months to conclude, especially if multiple rounds are required, and may be complex for lay people to complete. This may prove difficult to organise and geography may limit attendance. Limitations The NGT requires participants to personally attend a meeting. Method choice is influenced by various factors, including the research question, the perception of consensus required, and associated practicalities such as time and geography. When to use The NGT has been used to explore consumer and stakeholder views, while the Delphi technique is commonly used to develop guidelines with health professionals. The Delphi technique uses a multistage self-completed questionnaire with individual feedback, to determine consensus from a larger group of ‘experts.’ Questionnaires have been mailed, or more recently, e-mailed to participants. Variations have occurred in relation to generating ideas, and how ‘consensus’ is obtained from participants. The classic NGT involves four key stages: silent generation, round robin, clarification and voting (ranking). ![]() Methodology The NGT entails face-to-face discussion in small groups, and provides a prompt result for researchers. This paper provides an overview of the NGT and Delphi technique, including the steps involved and the types of research questions best suited to each method, with examples from the pharmacy literature. ![]() While consensus methods are commonly used in health services literature, few studies in pharmacy practice use these methods. ![]() Introduction The Nominal Group Technique (NGT) and Delphi Technique are consensus methods used in research that is directed at problem-solving, idea-generation, or determining priorities.
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