Brainstorming is a method used to generate ideas. In general terms, it involves having a group of people come together to discuss a topic and then collectively produce solutions.
KEY Takeaways
Brainstorming Basics
As the name suggests, brainstorming is a process in which people are brought together to form groups and generate ideas. Brainstorming is considered a great way to develop creative solutions.
Groups can take different forms, ranging from a large group of individuals to several individuals at a table. The goal of brainstorming is to stimulate ideas and generate new ways of thinking.
The first step to developing an effective brainstorming process is to decide who will participate. Typically, the groups will be led by a moderator. Brainstorming processes typically have at least one facilitator as well as a goal.
Before starting the brainstorming process, it is important to set goals.
Types of Brainstorming
There are many variations on this basic theme depending upon how the brainstorming is conducted. For example:
1) General brainstorming – This type of brainstorm is often done with small groups of people who have no prior knowledge of the subject matter but are asked to come up with potential solutions. People may be given a time limit to help them focus.
2) Ideation sessions – A meeting that seeks to elicit new ideas from participants.
3) Concept generation – This is similar to ideation but the goal is to generate concepts that have not been thought of before.
4) Idea development – This takes place after concept generation and combines the results with existing information to create something new.
5) Solution evaluation – This is a final step that focuses on assessing what worked well and what could work better next time.
Rules of Brainstorming
The following rules should be followed when conducting a successful brainstorming session:
• Make sure everyone has an equal opportunity to contribute.
• Be open-minded and willing to listen to all contributions.
• Encourage active participation and avoid silence.
• Give each person a chance to speak.
• Allow people to give their opinions freely and without fear of criticism or judgement.
• Don’t allow anyone to dominate the discussion.
• Avoid interrupting others while they talk.
Benefits of Brainstorming
A key benefit of brainstorming is that it encourages creativity. It provides a forum for people to share their thoughts without fear of criticism or judgement. As such, brainstorming helps people think outside of the box.
It also allows people to express themselves freely. It forces them to speak their mind and be more open about what they think.
Finally, brainstorming promotes collaboration. Participants must collaborate to find a solution.
Brainstorming Tips
When conducting a brainstorming session, there are some things you should keep in mind.
1. Brainstorming is considered a group activity.
It is highly recommended that the group be large in size (ranging from 5-15 people) to ensure the effectiveness of the brainstorming sessions.
2. Brainstorming is about making as many connections as possible.
Creativity is built on making connections. You have to make these connections in order to generate ideas. So, be open to new connections you can make.
3. Brainstorming is an inclusive process.
Nobody should feel excluded from the process. This means that you should try to include everyone in the brainstorming sessions.
4. Brainstorming is an innovative process.
You need to challenge yourself to think outside the box when brainstorming. Don’t worry if your idea isn’t perfect right away. Just keep trying until you find something that works.
5. Brainstorming is a social exercise.
When brainstorming, it is very easy for people to get into their own little worlds. It is important to stay connected so that they can bounce ideas off each other.
6. Brainstorming helps build trust within the group.
By giving others permission to express themselves without fear of judgment or criticism, people become more comfortable sharing their thoughts.
7. Brainstorming encourages creativity.
People tend to be more creative when they are free to explore multiple possibilities in a safe environment.
8. Brainstorming fosters collaboration.
People like to share their ideas and listen to those around them. When working in teams, brainstorming is the best way to collaborate effectively.
9. Brainstorming is fun!
Try to make the most out of any brainstorming experience. If you enjoy the process, you are much more likely to want to continue participating and contribute later on.
Conclusion
There are many things you can do to boost your creativity, and some of them can be very simple. The main thing to remember is that creativity doesn’t happen by itself. You need to work towards being more creative. As long as you don’t stop thinking, then there will always be room for improvement.