10 - Methods for formulating the recommendations
The methods for formulating the recommendations are clearly described.
User’s Manual Description:
A description of the methods used to formulate the recommendations and how final decisions were arrived at should be provided. For example, methods may include a voting system, informal consensus, and formal consensus techniques (e.g., Delphi, Glaser techniques). Areas of disagreement and methods of resolving them should be specified.
Where to Look:
Examine the paragraphs/chapters describing the guideline development process. In some cases, the methods used to formulate the recommendations are described in separate documents or in an appendix to the guideline. Examples of commonly labeled sections or chapters in a guideline where this information can be found include methods and guideline development process.
How to Rate:
Item content includes the following CRITERIA:
- description of the recommendation development process (e.g., steps used in modified Delphi technique, voting procedures that were considered)
- outcomes of the recommendation development process (e.g., extent to which consensus was reached using modified Delphi technique, outcome of voting procedures)
- description of how the process influenced the recommendations (e.g., results of Delphi technique influence final recommendation, alignment with recommendations and the final vote)
Additional CONSIDERATIONS:
- Is the item well written? Are the descriptions clear and concise?
- Is the item content easy to find in the guideline?
- Was a formal process used to arrive at the recommendations?
- Were the methods appropriate?
