===== 🧠 Consensus Methodology ===== **[[Consensus]] methodology** refers to structured approaches used to achieve agreement among a group of experts or stakeholders, particularly when empirical data is incomplete or expert opinions diverge. ==== 🔑 Main Consensus Methods ==== === 1. Delphi Method === * **Process:** Iterative rounds of anonymous questionnaires among experts. Feedback is shared between rounds. * **Goal:** Converge toward consensus. * **Applications:** Health guidelines, forecasting, policy development. * **Advantages:** Anonymity reduces bias; allows remote participation. * **Limitations:** Time-consuming; risk of participant drop-off. === 2. Nominal Group Technique (NGT) === * **Process:** Structured in-person session. Ideas are generated silently, then shared and ranked. * **Goal:** Rapid prioritization through voting. * **Applications:** Needs assessment, guideline creation. * **Advantages:** Promotes equal participation; fast. * **Limitations:** Requires physical presence; no anonymity. === 3. RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method (RAM) === * **Process:** Combines Delphi with systematic literature review. Experts rate clinical scenarios in two rounds. * **Goal:** Assess appropriateness of interventions. * **Applications:** Clinical decision-making tools. * **Advantages:** Evidence-informed; highly structured. * **Limitations:** Resource and time-intensive. === 4. Consensus Conference === * **Process:** Public or expert panel discusses and issues a joint consensus statement. * **Goal:** Incorporate diverse perspectives. * **Applications:** Ethical issues, public health, biotechnology. * **Advantages:** Democratic, transparent. * **Limitations:** Complex logistics; unpredictable outcomes. === 5. Modified Delphi / e-Delphi === * **Process:** Online version of Delphi; often with fewer rounds. * **Goal:** Speed up consensus while maintaining rigor. * **Applications:** Virtual expert panels, core outcome sets. * **Advantages:** Efficient and accessible. * **Limitations:** May lack depth or iterative refinement. ==== 📌 When to Use Consensus Methods ==== * Evidence is limited or conflicting * Expert opinion is needed to guide practice * Developing: - Clinical practice guidelines - Core outcome sets - Ethical or policy frameworks ==== 📘 Reporting and Standards ==== * **CREDES** – for Delphi methodology * **COS-STAD** – for developing Core Outcome Sets * **AGREE II** – for guideline reporting quality ---- Feel free to adapt for specific projects (e.g. cranioplasty outcome sets or neurosurgical guidelines).