Definition
Nominal Group Technique is an alternative to regular brainstorming. This technique is a structured variation of discussion methods regarding small groups. The process prevents a single person from dominating the discussion, and encourages group members that are more passive to participate. It eventually results in a set of prioritized recommendations and corresponding solutions.
The process involves dividing people into small groups of 5 and 6 members. They are seated around a table, and are encouraged to state an open ended question. Each person individually then spends several minutes in silence ideating and jotting down their ideas. The group then collects the ideas and shares them in a round-robin method. All are recorded in key terms on a flipchart Clarification. Each person then evaluates the ideas anonymously. Votes are then shared within the group, and a report in prepared. Then time is allowed for brief group presentations.
Further Reading
- “Group Techniques for Program Planning: A Guide to Nominal Group and Delphi Processes” (book), by by Andre L. Delbecq , Andrew H. Van De Ven , and David H. Gustafson.