How to Brainstorm with a Group

Everyone can participate in brainstorming.

Brainstorming is a popular tool businesses use to generate ideas to create new products, expand or enhance services and even help solve problems. When group brainstorming sessions are properly managed, they can promote innovation. Members of a group can bring diverse perspectives, and a free-flow of idea can spark additional creativity. There are some things to keep in mind, however, so your group brainstorming doesn't get out of control or offend anyone.

Instructions

1. Introduce yourselves if you don't know the other members of your group. In order for everyone to speak freely, people will need to feel comfortable talking around each other. Take some time before the brainstorming begins to understand the dynamic of the group. Try to relieve any tension between members for the good of the group and the success of the brainstorming session.

2. Explain the rules and parameters of the brainstorming session. The goal is to share as many ideas as possible but not to discuss or criticize the ideas during the idea-generating phase.

3. Discuss the topic the group will be brainstorming about. Everyone needs to be on the same page about where the discussion begins and about the goal of the session.

4. Write down everything that comes up in the brainstorming session, even if you don't agree with it or think the idea won't work. You never know when a silly idea will lead to successful new venture. Remember that the brainstorming session is the time for ideas to flow freely.

5. Bring the idea phase of the brainstorming session to a close, and go through the ideas. Have the group choose and discuss their favorite ideas. From there, narrow down the list and move forward with the most popluar ideas.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not allow criticism of anyone's ideas. This will add a negative energy to the brainstorming session.

References

• Bloomberg Businessweek: Eight Tips for Better Brainstorming
• MindTools: Brainstorming