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The following points highlight the top three techniques to improve the work done by a group. The techniques are: 1. Brain Storming 2. Delphi Method 3. Nominal Group Technique.
Technique # 1. Brain Storming:
In this technique of brain storming group participants are encouraged to express ideas without critically evaluating them and without considering their worth and ability and capabilities until all the ideas are presented, other group members are not allowed to make any negative comments.
Participants are also encouraged to elaborate upon other ideas and use them as spring board for discussion and an inspiration or stimulant for new ideas.
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In this technique an atmosphere of freedom and openness is endangered which can lead to the development of new and creative approaches to problems (Osbern— 1957). Thus, brain storming technique works by loosening the norms that restrain and inhibit flow of new and creative ideas.
It also reverses the norms externally to change deviant thinking. This technique is being applied currently in many groups for better work, efficiency and creativity.
Technique # 2. Delphi Method:
In this method, a number of experts are contacted and requested to complete a detailed questionnaire on their topic of interest. On the basis of the responses obtained from the experts a new questionnaire is developed to clarify any ambiguities or to get feedback on new issues that arose from the original responses.
The results are then summarised and returned to the initial respondent for providing the possible solutions in order of their worth and importance. Finally these results are combined and computed mathematically for the final solution that will be applied for the better performance of the group.
Technique # 3. Nominal Group Technique:
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This technique is more controlled and restricted than the brain storming technique. Here the members of the group first privately list their ideas. Then the members methodologically present such ideas to the group and submit their arguments in favour of implementing such ideas for improving group performance.
After all ideas have been presented, the group as a whole discusses and evaluates them. In the last, there is a secret vote on each of these ideas (Delberg, Vandeveu and Gustafson, 1975).
All these three techniques have some advantages over the traditional methods. In the traditional methods the members may come to certain conclusions in a premature way without proper discussion. They may spend time unnecessarily on issues that are unrelated and meaningless to the task.
The leader may have excessive influence on the group members and hence subordinates may feel restrained in presenting their own views.
But the brain storming, Delphi and nominating methods are better than the traditional methods in that they can lead to decisions of higher quality after free, frank and due deliberations. These techniques can create norms that increase the likelihood of the participation of group members and creativity. Every member here gets an opportunity to think and give suggestions.
Marrow, Bowers and Seashore (1967) have also presented a comprehensive programme of applications of various principles for positive improvement and effectiveness of group. According to Jenkins and Gupta (1983) more such principles are being employed in organisations today for positive improvements in real work setting.
Both productivity and satisfaction of the group members can be increased by application of such techniques.