Brainstorming is a great technique to identify issues, solutions and opportunities. It can help organizations challenge their thinking, create openings for doing things differently, and get different (hopefully better) results.
We have identified 5 of the most popular brainstorming techniques. While they vary in form, they are all designed to generate as many ideas as possible around a topic within a specific amount of time (usually 20 -30 minutes).
To choose the best brainstorming model you need to clear about your topic, objectives and the nature of the participants.
In brainstorming we are interested in quantity, not quality. Groups tend to self-censor their comments unless they are reminded of this goal. Remind your group of this goal so they don't self-censor. Tell the group that focusing on quantity will produce “jewels” and “junk” but there is no need to be concerned about the distinction at this point. It will be sorted out later.
1. Free-Form Brainstorming: This is the type of brainstorming where participants express their ideas as they occur. It is described in great detail in 5 Steps to Effective Brainstorming.
One of the key disadvantages of this type of brainstorming is that quieter, more self conscious members might not participate unless actively drawn in the process
2. Round Robin Brainstorming: People contribute ideas in turn, feeling free to “pass” if they have no idea to share in that round. The session is over when everyone passes. This ensures everyone participates.
3. Mind Mapping: this offers a more graphic approach to scribing responses, than simply listing ideas on a flipchart. One or two people are used as scribes for the group.
The process begins by creating a large writing space, at least 4 feet by 4 feet, on a wall. Write the topic statement in circle in the center of this space. Then gather responses and scribe them as lines branching out from the center circle.
Participants can either offer new ideas – scribe as new main branched around the circle; or extensions of earlier ideas – scribe as sub-branches of the appropriate main branches. The completed map thus contains a record of key associations among ideas. (Source: Tony Buzan, 1974, Using both sides of your brain. NY: Dutton)
It may be a good idea to start a process with one or two rounds of round robin brainstorming, and then set the group loose into a free form continuation of the activity. This is particularly useful if the group has not worked together before, and needs some encouragement to begin opening up.
4. Pencil and Paper Brainstorming: Participants write their ideas first, and then share them, either in turn or anonymously. The advantage of this technique is that it encourages participation by people who might otherwise feel intimidated.
5. Nominal Group Technique: This is a very structured form of brainstorming that results in the generation and prioritization of ideas. It is particularly useful when a large group is involved in the brainstorming process and when there is a need to take a brainstormed list and synthesize it into several prioritized items.
Another advantage is that it reduces the dominance of outspoken individuals and encourages participation by everyone.
This is brainstorming technique is lengthier and much more structured than the other approaches, but well worth the effort if the group is large and the topic is complex. Click here for a step-by-step detail of the process, The Nominal Group Approach.
More Help
If you have specific questions or would like more information on how to effectively use brainstorming techniques in your organization please contact Beth Chartier at 718-343-4008. She will arrange for you to speak with one of our consultants, free of charge, to get one-on-one support on brainstorming.