This article begins a three-part series on the basics of brainstorming, organised by …
What To Do Before the Brainstorm (click )
What To Do During the Brainstorm
What To Do After the Brainstorm (click )
While these lists may seen extensive, pick and choose what makes sense based on the size of the project, the team of people, how much time you may have, and any other consideration specific to your organisation or situation.
#1 Task: Create an Inspiring Environment
Above all else, the most important part of any brainstorm is how many ideas can be created. There is a direct through-line between the room environment and the volume and quality of ideas. A secondary goal is to minimise negativity.
Here are the basic tasks to take as you start and sustain the brainstorm.
Step 1: Set the tone
The atmosphere should be set the moment people arrive. It should “feel fun.” At the same time, minimise distractions – whether it’s ‘external” (such as obtrusive noise, catering, etc.) or ‘personal” (such as people’s mobile/cell phones, BlackBerrys, etc.
Even if the meeting is just you and someone else, set the realistic expectations and genuine attitude the moment they arrive.
- “Glad you’re here …”
- “I’ve been looking forward to talking with you, you’re always good at this type of thing …”
- “Two heads are always better than one …”
- “Let me turn off my cell phone so we can actually talk and get things done …”
Step 2: Quickly and authoritatively review the rules as needed … and stick to them!
- No negativity – Suspend or defer judgment on all ideas until the end.
- Focus on the problem – What do we have to impact or address? What are unusual ways to fix our problem?
- Write everything down – Put all of the ideas on flipchart pages so everyone can read them. Encourage people to re-read pages to combine earlier ideas with later ideas.
- Go for quantity, not quality – Generate as many ideas as possible (see the 90/10 rule).
- Build on ideas – Make every idea better. Merge smaller ideas into one better idea. Everyone participates. No one dominates.
- Have fun – A welcome and often humorous environment means people are more relaxed, which also means people tend to be more comfortable talking about unusual, different, odd or provocative ideas.
Step 3: Quickly review key pieces of information (objective, central problem, key issues)
Review only the necessary details in a two minutes or less. Answer any general questions.
Step 4: Start with an ice-breaker or warm-up.
Like an athlete who warms up their muscle before a work-out, begin with some mental games to get the creative juices flowing.
For more, try: and .
Step 5: Generate as many ideas as you can! GO!
Push beyond the obvious. Provoke for fresh ideas. Don’t worry if the ideas get too “other there.” It’s easier to tame a wild idea than try to inject excitement into a boring idea.
Step 6: Have toys, games and exercises ready if creativity and energy lags.
Typically brainstorms start out well, but then momentum and emotions wilt after the first rush of ideas. Have things immediately available to provoke and re-stimulate the imagination.
After (about) 60 minutes, you should have a wall full of flipchart paper filled with ideas – not all good ideas, but ideas nonetheless.
What other key elements are necessary to consider during the brainstorm? Please feel free to add your comments below .
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