Reverse Brainstorming
There is a method called reverse brainstorming and this is where you are solving problems with a combination of brainstorming and reversal techniques. You can extend the use of brainstorming by combining it this way. You can draw out even more creative ideas with this combination.
First, in order to use this technique, there are a couple of “reverse” questions that will be used to start the session.
You usually start off with a “what can we do to solve this problem?” or “how do we solve this problem?” question in the typical session. In a “reverse brainstorming” session, you are going to ask “How could I have possibly caused this problem?”
Instead of asking how to achieve results, you are asking “how can I somehow achieve the opposite effect?”
Here are some tips on using “reverse brainstorming”
a) Define the problem or challenge clearly and write it down. Make sure there are no questions in anyone’s mind or a way to misconstrue the topic at hand.
b) Always start off with two questions. Turn the problem or challenge around by asking this question; “how could I have possibly caused this problem?” or “how could I possibly produce the opposite effect?
c) You want to get the reverse solution by reverse brainstorming. Allow the ideas to flow freely like in a traditional brainstorm. Do not turn away any idea or even think about. Thought censoring is not allowed. Encourage them to just say whatever comes to their mind.
d) Once you have brainstormed a lot of ideas to solve your reverse problem, now….reverse these into creative idea solutions to the original challenge or problem. Turn them into more ideas to feed off of, adding to these as well.,
e) Time to evaluate, see what kind of solution ideas you have. Can you detect a solution that may work? Can you see any attributes of a solution?
Reverse brainstorming is a great innovation in problem solving when you are having difficulty indentifying solutions to your problem directly. It is a good technique that can really lead to some robust solutions. It is important to apply the same rules you use for brainstorming to help explore all solutions at their full capacity.
