5 Brainstorming Basics
I enjoy the creative process of collaborating with others to produce ideas and ways of solving problems. Here are five things that I have found helpful when it comes to brainstorming.
- Research the topic before you begin. Come inspired. Arrive with a full brain and leave with an empty one. If you are facilitating this meeting then give the team a heads up so they can begin to cultivate ideas before the meeting even starts.
- Have an agenda and stay on point. Make the most of the time you have and try to stay focused. Come prepared knowing what your going to discuss and in what order. Start with the most important items and go from there. Contrary to popular opinion, organization breeds creativity.
- Have the right people in the room. Invite those most knowledgeable about the topic at hand. Although, you don’t want to just have intelligent people they also need to be able to articulate their ideas.
- Have a facilitator. You need someone to direct the ship. The point of brainstorming is to provide solutions not just useless ideas. It’s easy to get off course that’s why you need someone holding the map.
- Assign someone to take notes. You don’t want to forget those amazing ideas. It’s best to use someone that doesn’t have to worry about contributing as much to the meeting and avoid using your stronger players.
Check out five more, but in the meantime I would love to hear your take. What are some things that have worked for you?
