When to Use the Delphi Method

Understanding the ideal scenarios for applying the Delphi method will help you choose the right research approach for your project.

Ideal Use Cases

The Delphi method is particularly well-suited for situations where:

Expert Opinion is Required

When empirical data is unavailable, incomplete, or insufficient, and expert judgment is needed to fill knowledge gaps. This is common in emerging fields or when predicting future trends.

Consensus is Needed

When you need to achieve agreement among diverse stakeholders or experts on a complex issue, such as developing guidelines, standards, or policy recommendations.

Geographic Dispersion Exists

When experts are located in different regions or countries, making face-to-face meetings impractical or expensive. The Delphi method allows global participation without travel.

Bias Reduction is Important

When you want to minimize the influence of dominant personalities, organizational hierarchies, or group dynamics that can skew results in traditional meetings.

Complex or Uncertain Topics

When dealing with multifaceted issues that require expert judgment from various disciplines or when forecasting future developments in technology, policy, or society.

Common Application Areas

When NOT to Use Delphi

While powerful, the Delphi method may not be appropriate in these situations:

When Empirical Data is Sufficient

If you can answer your research question with experimental data, existing literature, or quantitative analysis, these approaches may be more appropriate and objective.

When Immediate Results are Required

Delphi studies typically require several weeks to months. If you need answers within days, consider alternative methods like expert interviews or rapid assessment procedures.

When Expert Availability is Low

If you cannot recruit enough qualified experts willing to participate in multiple rounds, the study's validity will be compromised. Consider single-round surveys or interviews instead.

When Rich Interaction is Essential

If your research requires dynamic discussion, debate, and real-time clarification, methods like focus groups or nominal group technique might be more suitable.

Decision Framework

Ask yourself these questions:

1. Do I need expert judgment on a complex or uncertain topic?
2. Is achieving consensus or identifying disagreements important?
3. Can I commit to a multi-round process over several weeks?
4. Can I access and recruit qualified experts?
5. Would anonymity improve the quality of responses?
6. Are experts geographically dispersed?
7. Is the topic appropriate for written communication?

If you answered "yes" to most of these questions, the Delphi method is likely a good fit for your research.