Which of the Following Describes the Consensus Method?
Consensus methods are a powerful tool used by organizations, researchers, and communities to reach agreement on the best solution to a problem. These methods are used to carefully weigh the different perspectives of each participant before determining the best course of action. In this article, we’ll explore the various types of consensus methods and their most common characteristics.
Nominal Group Process
The nominal group process (NGP) is an iterative problem-solving approach in which a group of individuals collectively reach a decision. This method relies on each participant’s insights and allows for a collective brainstorming process. The NGP encourages all participants to think through the issues before arriving at a decision, and can be used for problem-solving and decision-making.
Consensus Development Panels
Consensus development panels (CDPs) are a type of deliberative assembly in which a group of experts are brought together to make a judgment on a particular issue. This approach is used by groups that seek to assess and agree on the quality of evidence for a particular medical or scientific topic. A CDP is composed of a range of experts with different backgrounds and experiences who are chosen based on their expertise relevant to the topic. Through their deliberations, the panelists form a consensus on the quality of evidence that supports the issue at hand.
Delphi Method
The Delphi method is a consensus-building technique which uses a series of rounds of structured surveys and feedback to arrive at a decision. This method is typically used to generate consensus from a large and diverse group of stakeholders and experts on a particular topic or issue. The Delphi method is an iterative process in which a series of surveys are sent out to participants, and each participant’s feedback is used to revise and update the survey in subsequent rounds. Through this process, the group eventually reaches a consensus.
Conclusion
Consensus methods are an invaluable tool for organizations, researchers, and communities to reach agreement on the best solution to a problem. Each of the three main consensus methods – the nominal group process, consensus development panels, and the Delphi method – have their own unique characteristics and advantages. In addition, all three techniques provide a structured way of generating collective agreement on a particular issue, allowing for a fair and equitable decision-making process.