Triangulation

The triangulation techniques provide an important instrument that can be used to increase the quality, credibility, validity, and reliability of data, findings, project results, decision-making material, etc.

By looking at situations or subject matter from different perspectives, by independent viewers, using complementary methods and techniques, it is possible to acquire a second (or third) opinion that can overcome (or reduce) systematic biases, personal opinions, flaws intrinsic to a particular approach, and provide a balanced overall picture.

<blockqote>"A safeguard for truth comes from consilience: the horizontal links across diverse disciplines." [Edward Wilson]</blockqote>

The are many ways to integrate triangulation techniques in an organisation or project.

• Data can be collected at different times and locations by independent persons.
• Multiple techniques and methods can be used in different parts of an organisation to do the same or similar tasks.
• Information and findings may be organised (and linked together) according to knowledge worker's perspectives, i.e. target audiences.
• Competence-based groups or communities of interest may perform reviews of project results.
• A matrix organisation where the line monitors and evaluates projects and their outcomes.