The Delphi method as a research tool: an example, design considerations and applications

  • Authors:

  • Chitu Okoli;Suzanne D. Pawlowski

  • Affiliations:

  • John Molson School of Business, Concordia University, GM 209-23, 1455 Boulevard de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montréal, Qué., Canada H3G 1M8 and Department of Information Systems and Decision Sc ...;John Molson School of Business, Concordia University, GM 209-23, 1455 Boulevard de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montréal, Qué., Canada H3G 1M8 and Department of Information Systems and Decision Sc ...

  • Venue:
  • Information and Management
  • Year:
  • 2004

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Abstract

The Delphi method has proven a popular tool in information systems research for identifying and prioritizing issues for managerial decision-making. However, many past studies have not adopted a systematic approach to conduct a Delphi study. This article provides rigorous guidelines for the process of selecting appropriate experts for the study and gives detailed principles for making design choices during the process that ensure a valid study. A detailed example of a study to identify key factors affecting the diffusion of e-commerce in Sub-Saharan Africa illustrates the design choices that may be involved. We conclude with suggestions for theoretical applications.