A new approach for Delphi processes based on group consensus with linguistic terms

A new approach for Delphi processes including a measure of consensus based on linguistic terms is introduced in this paper. The measure of consensus involves qualitative reasoning techniques and is based on the concept of entropy. In the proposed approach, consensus is reached automatically without the need for neither a moderator nor a final interaction among panelists. In addition, it permits panelists to answer with different levels of precision depending on their knowledge on each question. An illustrative example considering the opinions of stake holders in neonate health-care to reach a final consensual definition of chronic pain in neonates is presented.