Qualitative research: Application of the Delphi method to CEM research

Construction engineering and management (CEM) researchers often rely on alternative research techniques when traditional methods fail. For example, surveys, interviews, and group-brainstorming techniques may not be appropriate for research that involves confounding factors and requires access to sensitive data. In such an environment, the Delphi technique allows researchers to obtain highly reliable data from certified experts through the use of strategically designed surveys. At present, the Delphi method has not seen widespread use in CEM research. This is likely due to variation among studies that implement Delphi in CEM research and ambiguity in literature that provides guidance for the specific parameters associated with the method. Using the guidance in this paper, the reader may: (1) understand the merits, appropriate application, and appropriate procedure of the traditional Delphi process; (2) identify and qualify potential expert panelists according to objective guidelines; (3) select the appropriate parameters of the study such as the number of panelists, number of rounds, type of feedback, and measure of consensus; (4) identify potential biases that may negatively impact the quality of the results; and (5) appropriately structure the surveys and conduct the process in such a way that bias is minimized or eliminated.