Expert procedures in foresight: interaction with expert professionals during long-term forecasting research

Abstract

The article addresses the key problems of professional procedures’ organization in long-term Science, Technology & Innovation (STI) forecasting research. Within the framework of professional procedures in forecasting research, the problem of ensuring the required quality of expert professionals for each area of study has arisen. Qualitative examination can be achieved through optimal organization of the work of expert groups and the creation of expert panels with a high level of professional competence in a subject area. However, under a limited number of competent professionals within a specific subject area, it is crucial to use special qualification criteria for the selection of experts based on ex ante assessment. Besides, application of individual methods of motivation helps to improve the quality of technological forecasts. In the article the authors offer their own methods of ex ante assessment of expert’s competence. Special attention is also paid to the most common methods of motivating expert professionals engaged in forecasting research in the science and technology areas. Refs 25. Figs 2.