How to Brainstorm Solutions to Problems at Work

Two heads may be better than one in brainstorming sessions.

Problems occur every day in the workplace, and most are solved with a simple decision based on previous experience. However, for complicated problems, or problems that have no precedent, brainstorming is needed to develop a solution that solves the problem. Brainstorming is a process that works differently for everyone, though there are basic steps to take to make your brainstorming sessions efficient and productive. Do not hesitate to bounce ideas off of others in your workplace.

Instructions

1. Pinpoint the root of the problem. To brainstorm solutions to a problem, specifically state the reasons why this problem exists in the first place. This is helpful in group settings because not everyone involved may have the same understanding of the causes of a problem. When you identify the causes of a problem, you may realize that the causes have occurred in the past as well, and that some solutions may exist for the problem.

2. Write your ideas for solutions as quickly as possible on a sheet of paper without thinking about constraints or limitations. If you are in a brainstorming group, this idea generation should be done individually, then revealed in a group meeting. Your prejudgments prevent you from exploring ideas because of worries about budget limitations, manager approval or other limitations. Your "ideal world" solutions can be modified later to fit within the restrictions of your company. When ideas are presented in a group, let each person finish before giving opinions.

3. Ask a co-worker or team member for her input if you are not brainstorming as a team. Your colleagues have different perspectives and may provide new ways to look at a problem that you did not see previously. Give the person time to think about the problem before asking for his answer.

4. Take a break to let your brain rest. Brainstorming solutions to problems for too long taxes your brain, potentially creating a creativity block. Let the problem rest for a couple of hours or a day if time is not an issue. When you come back to the problem, you have a fresh pair of eyes.

5. Look at a solution that a company in a different industry used to solve a similar problem. For example, if you work for a book publishing company, and have trouble creating an online presence, look at the music industry for ideas of how to solve your problem. Even though another company is different from your own, it may provide the stepping stones for brainstorming solutions.

6. Narrow down the best ideas to solve the problem and focus on expanding each idea. After brainstorming by yourself or with a team, you will have many ideas, some good and some bad. Choose a few ideas and outline the steps necessary for implementation. Ask if the idea creates any new problems, or if it fully addresses the problem.

References

• WorkShifting: Problem Solving in the Workshifting World - Part Two; Sharlyn Lauby; 2011
• Nova Mind: Using Mind Maps for Brainstorming