Sociology Plus
Delphi Method Definition
The Delphi method is a research technique, often used for forecasting, that marshals the views of a panel of experts — through interviews or meetings — on the assumption that they are well placed to estimate future trends in their field. It takes its name from the temple of Apollo at Delphi in ancient Greece, whose famous oracle was renowned for prophecies of a highly cryptic character.
Limitations
Whether experts are always best placed to forecast events is debatable. Because experts by definition hold a particular view of the world, they may excel at extrapolating trends already well established, yet prove less adept at spotting insidious change or the genuinely unexpected — precisely the things an outsider may be better positioned to see.