Table 4 Applicability statements of questioners (N = 12) and experts (N = 8) in general interviews

Applicability

Applicable, however, in

addition face-to-face consult

with familiar expert:

because of habit, reliability

or confidence

6

Applicable for observing new OSH

trends

Applicable for increasing contact

with practice

5

4

Applicable because of easy

access to expert(s)

4

Applicable because questioners from

practice have easy access to

expert(s), which is usually difficult

2

Applicable for non-urgent

problems

4

Answer more applicable when more

experts answer

2

Not applicable when lay-persons

cannot describe context

2

Target

populations

Computer and internet

experience necessary

3

Questions only by semiprofessionals,

otherwise too many

questions

3

Mainly for occupational physicians

2

Important

requirements

High reliability through

hosting and support by

trustworthy professional

organization and moderator

7

High reliability because of hosting

and support by trustworthy

professional organization and

moderator

7

Effective implementation or

media campaigns to reach

working population

5

Website must generate some income

to support experts, moderator and

technique

3

Timely answers (< 1 week)

3

Anonymity of questioners

2