Advantages of Brainstorming

Brainstorming is a really great method when you want to think of creative ideas.  It can lead to innovation that you’ve never dreamed of.  The trouble is that some people might not be used to lateral thinking.  A great solution to this problem is to choose a brainstorming activity to put everyone in the right mindset. 

One brainstorming activity that you can try is to think of “what if” questions.  Have everyone do some thinking to come up with one of these.  “What if we got several more clients this year?” is one example.  Then, you can have everyone do their own mind mapping in order to come up with a solution or answer.  This can be as simple as drawing up a brainstorming web.  Have everyone share so that they get used to interacting in front of a large group (that will be crucial later).

Another brainstorming activity to try is to break up the group into smaller groups.  Have each small group think of some things that are standing in the way of goal facilitation.  When those things are identified, have them do some problem solving.  It is often easier for people to speak their mind in front of small groups rather than the whole crowd.

Yet another brainstorming activity is to have each person think of an innovative way to improve your organization.  They can list these things on paper, while the facilitator is writing a larger list.  It can be very helpful to do this sort of brainstorming even if you can’t identify a specific problem.

If you’re finding that some people are shy with sharing their ideas, don’t worry about it.  When they do have a great idea they will share.  Or, you can state that you’ll accept ideas privately as well.  The trick is to have a cutoff point so that you’re not deliberating forever.  You’re sure to have a few vocal ones in the mix, so everyone’s ideas and participation levels should even out.

Using a brainstorming activity can really help to ease your group into the whole process.  Once everyone is comfortable you can use brainstorming on a regular basis in order to come up with an implement your goals.