Brainstorming is an amazing tool used in business to bring out the best ideas that people have and allow stimulating thoughts surrounding a given topic.
Some brainstorming rules are:
1. Go for quantity: the more the better.
2. No Criticism, no evaluation, no censorship.
3. Anything goes, no matter how ridiculous, outrageous, farfetched, or wrong.
4. No discussion, except for clarification purposes.
5. Every idea is recorded.
6. Piggybacking/ cross stimulation is encouraged.
7. Ideas are presented briefly.
Guidelines:
Explore all factors Involved, all possible alternatives, positive and negative aspects, considering short term, medium and long term effects of your decisions.
Scenario
You are part of a team of explorers going to the North Pole travelling on snow. You have been commissioned to plan the trip in detail putting the following factors into consideration:
- What skill set would you require the team you will hire to have?
- Based on the skill set and personalities you are looking for; write a 1 paragraph ad that will be in the paper to attract the right candidates.
- What supplies will you need? Justify each one.
- What are factors you would put into consideration?
- What kind of budget do you believe you will require?
- Who would you select as your leader?
- What can you expect during your journey?
- What are intangible considerations?
This is an example you can use to teach your team how to brainstorm. Remember to allow ideas to flow freely and enjoy this exercise, and then apply it to a business scenario. You will be able to solve complex problems, and will make your team feel a part of the decision making process.
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