 Brainstorming is a tool used by teams to bring out ideas in an environment free of criticism with unrestricted solutions and resulting in presenting the ideas generated in a structured format. When is it beneficial to conduct a Brainstorming 'think tank’? - To identify and consider new projects, products or services
- To identify issues to tackle and prioritise
- To test new technologies and products
- To gain buy in on strategic planning around projects
Why conduct a Brainstorming ‘think tank’? - To encourage team participation and creative thinking
- To generate new ideas that may produce solutions to problems
- To foster a sense of ownership in discussions and the resulting activities
What ground rule should be established when conducting a Brainstorming ‘think tank’? - Set a time limit and assign a timekeeper and data recorder
- Ensure rapid generation of ideas and active participation by all team members
- No discussions, criticisms, compliments or other comments against others ideas
- Build on ideas generated
- Record ideas exactly as written by participants without judgement
- Don’t interrupt when someone is presenting an idea
- Where ideas appear to be the same, combine them
- Outline results of brainstorming session and action/results to follow
Tips for facilitating a beneficial and energy filled Brainstorming ‘think tank’ - Display ideas generated where everyone can seem them this will avoid misinterpretation and duplication which in turn will help stimulate creative thinking in the group.
- Record ideas exactly as spoken by participants
- Aim to generate a long list of ideas with clarification as each idea is presented to ensure that the idea is understood by other participants in the group
- Link ideas that are similar or build upon ideas to generate further ideas
- Consider inviting a few outside key stakeholders into your ‘think tank’ like your suppliers and customers as this can generate and facilitate brainstorming of new ideas and thought processes.
By encouraging staff to participate in brainstorming ‘think tank’ you will be involving your staff in the decision making processes and gaining their buy in when it comes to driving projects and enforcing key policies or processes within your business. Brainstorming ‘think tanks’ are great tools to implement for innovation, team building and employee retention.
Should you require the services of an outside professional facilitator to run your brainstorming ‘think tank’ and add those extra elements of fun particularly as a conference segment, please contact Wendy Fogarty from I&IBS on 02 42832221 or email your details for a quote. |
