You know your objective from the meeting. But, it is either some participants bicker the time away or few people really contribute much. You can use the 7 techniques for more effective brainstorming discussed here.
Definition of brainstorming
Brainstorming is a problem-solving process that involves a group discussion to collate ideas freely and spontaneously.
Difficulties in brainstorming
First, team members tend to be less than objective due to fear of rejection or judgment. As a result, they do not present the best ideas.
Second, people believe brainstorming simply involves an open discussion with everyone. However, this method may make the session unproductive because of some social drawbacks.
After all, participants tend to only focus on the first few ideas shared in the meeting.
Furthermore, there is the bias referred to as anchoring. Few participants take up 60-75% of the talk time. Surely, this can act as a barrier to others giving fresh ideas.
7 techniques for more effective brainstorming
For efficient and effective brainstorming you need to encourage collaboration. More so, you need to reduce or remove all forms of judgment. Here are some techniques for more effective brainstorming.
1. Brain Writing – keep idea generation separate from the discussion
Basically, this method involves the team leader sharing the topic first. Thereafter, team members note down their ideas. Then, a discussion takes place.
Thus, the issue of anchoring bias is reduced. All team members are encouraged to contribute with their ideas. Besides, they have more time to consider those ideas. Moreover, this technique is ideal for teams that prefer to consider not just the first but all ideas.
2. Figuring Storming – think like a figurehead
Essentially, figuring storming involves putting oneself in the shoes of someone else. It could be the boss or a famous mentor. You would ask how they would handle the situation.
Consequently, your team would get fresh ideas and a different perspective. This technique is ideal if your team seems to be having repetitive ideas.
3. Brain-netting – online collaboration and brainstorming
Recently, working remotely has become the norm. However, teams need to come together to brainstorm. As such, brainstorming tools are used to make online collaboration and brainstorming effective.
For instance, you could use online mind-mapping tools to answer questions and generate tangential ideas. You could even map your ideas out visually.
4. Rapid Ideation – time-bound brainstorming
Here, the trap to overthink new concepts and solutions is avoided. You simply give some context using information or questions. Then, you set a time limit for team members to pen down their ideas and thoughts.
With this technique, your team members need not worry about filtering their ideas. More so, you can it to suit your team and project needs.
5. Round Robin Brainstorming – one-by-one sharing
Again, there is a tendency for some team members to remain quiet throughout your meeting. This technique has everyone sharing their ideas in a circle one after the other. Remember, you should have someone record all shared ideas for discussion thereafter.
Likewise, try to treat every idea with equal emphasis.
6. Starbursting – ask all questions
Talk about being thorough. Here, you focus on the team coming up with as many questions on the topic. You can start with the 5w questions (who, what, where, when, and why).
Meanwhile, this is a great technique to use if you do not wish to overlook any aspect of your project.
7. Stepladder Technique – sequestered and sequential sharing
Again, if you wish to encourage general participation, you can use the stepladder technique. First, share the topic. Then, have every team member but two leave the room. Thereafter, they brainstorm the topic and another member comes in with ideas. That is when the other two will discuss theirs. Next, you repeat the process until everyone is back in the room.
Ideally, all team members contribute before they can be influenced by others.
Wrapping it up
Surely, you should be able to identify one or more of these brainstorming techniques that can work for your team members. Remember, the ultimate goal is to have team members contribute freely and spontaneously. In any case, you can adapt any of the 7 techniques for effective brainstorming that suits your needs.
