The participation of lifeworld experts in Delphi processes: A reflection on method and practice

Area of Science:

• Health Sciences
• Participatory Health Research
• Social Interaction Processes

Background:

• Delphi studies systematically synthesize expert opinions for consensus in health sciences.
• Increasingly, lifeworld experts (patients, relatives) are included alongside scientific/professional experts.
• Delphi techniques involve cognitive judgment influenced by individual, situational, and cultural factors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze opportunities and challenges of including lifeworld experts in Delphi studies.
• To derive practical implications for conducting Delphi surveys with diverse expert panels.
• To provide recommendations for enhancing Delphi study outcomes with lifeworld expert participation.

Main Methods:

• In-depth analysis of a systematic review of Delphi studies involving lifeworld experts.
• Evaluation of theoretical and methodological aspects of Delphi techniques.
• Reporting structured according to PRISMA guidelines.

Main Results:

• Inclusion of lifeworld experts in Delphi studies is often unsystematic.
• Results are typically not analyzed separately by expert group, despite valid reasons.
• Heterogeneity in expert panels, especially with lifeworld experts, significantly impacts Delphi study outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Expert panel composition and diversity management are crucial for Delphi study quality.
• Specific recommendations are needed to address potential biases from lifeworld expert participation.
• Systematic integration and analysis of lifeworld expert input are essential for reliable consensus.