Brainstorming Techniques for Rapid Problem Solving
by Rick Sheridan

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Brainstorming Techniques for Rapid Problem Solving

Brainstorming is a method for developing creative solutions to a variety of challenges. It works by focusing on a problem, and deliberately coming up with as many unusual solutions as possible. Once the group has brainstormed as many options as possible, analyze these ideas and further refine the best possibilities.

Some of the topics for brainstorming could include: a more accurate grading system for students, how to overcome writer's block, developing better employee relations, creating a new market for a product, etc.

Members of the group should be encouraged to have fun brainstorming in an environment where creativity is welcomed. No idea should be criticized or evaluated during the brainstorming session. Criticism stifles creativity and discourages participation. Members of the group should come up with their own new ideas and also try to expand on other suggestions. A record should be kept of the ideas on a chalkboard or as a tape recording for subsequent evaluation. A variety of software programs have recently been developed to help record ideas and to encourage creation of new ideas.

Here are some tips for conducting a successful brainstorming session based on my personal experiences, along with several books that I’ve read on the subject:

Brainstorming groups usually range from around four to 15 members; there should be a moderator to coordinate the proceedings, introduce the purpose of the session and outline the rules.

The seating arrangement should allow for maximum face-to-face interaction. Round tables or groups sitting on the floor in a circle are better than long, narrow arrangements of chairs.

The moderator should to discourage anyone from evaluating the suggestions until later. As mentioned above, this stifles creativity and discourages participation. The wilder the idea, the better. Let people blurt out their ideas without raising their hands as long as things do not move so fast that is impossible to keep track of them.

Encourage group members to listen carefully to others. Tell them to think of ways to expand or to spin-off others' ideas. Don't try to find the perfect answer. The best solution will eventually emerge.

Don't place a time limit on the group. Unlike a staff meeting, which should be timed, a brainstorming session isn't over until people run out of ideas. Make sure people plan to stay as long as necessary.

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Author's Bio
Rick Sheridan runs BookSpirit.com, an online bookstore with many personal development and self-help topics. His news and feature articles have been published by The Chicago Sun-Times, United Press International, etc. More information at: http://www.bookspirit.com