Which approach uses expert input anonymously to reach consensus?

• A. Delphi Technique
• B. Brainstorming
• C. Root Cause Analysis
• D. SWOT Analysis

Answer: (A)

Delphi Technique uses expert input anonymously to reach consensus. In this approach, a group of experts answers questionnaires in several rounds. After each round, the facilitator provides an aggregated, anonymized summary of the responses, and participants can revise their views in light of the feedback. This loop continues until a stable agreement emerges. Anonymity helps prevent one or two individuals from dominating the discussion, reduces pressure to conform, and encourages honest judgments, which improves the reliability of the consensus on complex or uncertain issues.

Brainstorming, by contrast, focuses on generating a large number of ideas in a group setting and often involves open discussion and visible influence from stronger personalities. Root Cause Analysis is a diagnostic process aimed at uncovering underlying causes of a problem, not building consensus among experts. SWOT Analysis is a strategic planning tool that assesses strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats through group analysis, but it isn’t designed to reach consensus via anonymous rounds.