Description Long

The expert panel is based on collaboration among a selected group of professionals who contribute their expertise to evaluate and refine ideas or solutions. Experts are typically individuals with formal qualifications and often academic training, but in a broader sense, the term also includes anyone with in-depth knowledge of a particular issue – such as stakeholders or those directly affected. The purpose of this method is to obtain a more precise evaluation of an idea. Additional insights can also be incorporated to inform and strengthen the solution. A facilitator may guide the participants through the evaluation process. This method can be applied at various stages of a project – during idea generation, concept selection, or the final assessment of proposed solutions.

Preparation

• Define the required competencies and perspectives.
• Contact the experts and assemble the panel.
• Develop evaluation criteria.
• If applicable, provide an introduction to the topic.
• Online: Prepare an online meeting room (e.g. Zoom) and ensure that access works and audio and video function properly.

Execution

1. Present the ideas to the panel, ensuring they are prepared in a comparable format and contain enough detail to allow expert evaluation.
2. Remind participants of the evaluation criteria.
3. Participants systematically assess the ideas – this stage should be facilitated.
4. Document the evaluations.

Hints from experience

• Experts may also be selected from a creative team.
• Assembling a panel with diverse perspectives helps to gather a broad range of feedback.

References

http://betterevaluation.org/evaluation-options/expert_panel