The Psychology of Quality and More

Nominal Group Technique (NGT)

When ideas or opinions need to be gathered from within a group, Brainstorming is not always the best solution, for example where the group prefers a more structured style of working or where some group members are dominant. In this case, the Nominal Group Technique (or NGT) may be used.

NGT sessions have two parts. The first part involves creation and transcription of thoughts so all can see them. The second part of the session is the reduction of ideas to a final selection. Both parts are done in silence. 

It is the lack of interaction between the team members that gives this tool its title of 'nominal' group technique, as the team is only nominally interacting as a group.

See also:

Creatingminds.org

Toolbook chapter: Nominal Group Technique (NGT)