Brainstorming is often described as a group effort by which people make collective efforts to find an answer for a given problem by collecting together a collection of ideas voluntarily contributed by the members. However, while brainstorming can be a powerful tool in the pursuit of any goal, it is best used as an occasional, complementary tool when working toward a common goal.
When brainstorming, it is important to remember that many brainstorming groups are comprised of individuals with different skills and perspectives. Because of this, it is not always possible for every member of a brainstorming group to contribute the same amount of thought or ideas to a given project. A successful brainstorming group requires a certain degree of consensus, in that only one idea or solution is accepted and implemented.
It is important for each member of a brainstorming group to be willing to be a part of the brainstorming process. Brainstorming can be very uncomfortable, and often creates feelings of isolation among brainstormers. Being willing to make an honest attempt at self-reflection, self-awareness, and empathy is essential in the process of discovering solutions. While brainstorming sessions are designed for individuals to come together and share their thoughts, it is important for each individual to recognize and accept the contributions of others. Being aware of other's experiences and opinions will provide the group with invaluable insights and allow the group to work together as a whole.
The key to developing a successful, collaborative brainstorming group is fostering an atmosphere of openness, honesty, and communication, as these characteristics will produce positive results. Before conducting a brainstorming session, all brainstorming participants should be aware of their own shortcomings and their level of collaboration. This knowledge will help to determine the level of participation required from each person.
To ensure that the group develops the right chemistry, it is important to have an agenda and be clear on what is to be accomplished during each session. Having a clear goal will also help the group to focus on the larger picture and to work together toward a common goal. The importance of goals cannot be underestimated. Goals will keep members engaged, as will tasks that are realistic and well defined.
A brainstorming group also needs to have an understanding of the type of problems they are attempting to solve. For example, if a brainstorming group was to conduct research to develop new methods of increasing sales, the group may want to consider specific questions about what types of questions will be most useful. In addition, the brainstorming group may wish to consider the type of data they are likely to collect during the research. This information, as well as the number of people needed to conduct the research and how much of the data needs to be retained, whether the information can be shared between the group members, and the best time for gathering the information.
It is also important for the brainstorming group to discuss the types of tools and/or resources they plan to use. When brainstorming, it is also important to consider who will collect the information, how much it will cost, and what type of format they plan to use to record the information. Each member should be able to present their data in an organized manner and to ensure that the information is properly documented.
A group that is successful is the result of the contributions of all members, each contributing their piece to the project. Therefore, it is important for the members to maintain open communication throughout the process. As well as maintaining an honest dialogue, each member should be able to voice their thoughts and concerns. Each member should have their own specific input regarding the progress of the brainstorming.Successful Brainstorming - How to Develop a Brainstorming Group
Brainstorming is often described as a group effort by which people make collective efforts to find an answer for a given problem by collecting together a collection of ideas voluntarily contributed by the members. However, while brainstorming can be a powerful tool in the pursuit of any goal, it is best used as an occasional, complementary tool when working toward a common goal.
When brainstorming, it is important to remember that many brainstorming groups are comprised of individuals with different skills and perspectives. Because of this, it is not always possible for every member of a brainstorming group to contribute the same amount of thought or ideas to a given project. A successful brainstorming group requires a certain degree of consensus, in that only one idea or solution is accepted and implemented.
It is important for each member of a brainstorming group to be willing to be a part of the brainstorming process. Brainstorming can be very uncomfortable, and often creates feelings of isolation among brainstormers. Being willing to make an honest attempt at self-reflection, self-awareness, and empathy is essential in the process of discovering solutions. While brainstorming sessions are designed for individuals to come together and share their thoughts, it is important for each individual to recognize and accept the contributions of others. Being aware of other's experiences and opinions will provide the group with invaluable insights and allow the group to work together as a whole.
The key to developing a successful, collaborative brainstorming group is fostering an atmosphere of openness, honesty, and communication, as these characteristics will produce positive results. Before conducting a brainstorming session, all brainstorming participants should be aware of their own shortcomings and their level of collaboration. This knowledge will help to determine the level of participation required from each person.
To ensure that the group develops the right chemistry, it is important to have an agenda and be clear on what is to be accomplished during each session. Having a clear goal will also help the group to focus on the larger picture and to work together toward a common goal. The importance of goals cannot be underestimated. Goals will keep members engaged, as will tasks that are realistic and well defined.
A brainstorming group also needs to have an understanding of the type of problems they are attempting to solve. For example, if a brainstorming group was to conduct research to develop new methods of increasing sales, the group may want to consider specific questions about what types of questions will be most useful. In addition, the brainstorming group may wish to consider the type of data they are likely to collect during the research. This information, as well as the number of people needed to conduct the research and how much of the data needs to be retained, whether the information can be shared between the group members, and the best time for gathering the information.
It is also important for the brainstorming group to discuss the types of tools and/or resources they plan to use. When brainstorming, it is also important to consider who will collect the information, how much it will cost, and what type of format they plan to use to record the information. Each member should be able to present their data in an organized manner and to ensure that the information is properly documented.
A group that is successful is the result of the contributions of all members, each contributing their piece to the project. Therefore, it is important for the members to maintain open communication throughout the process. As well as maintaining an honest dialogue, each member should be able to voice their thoughts and concerns. Each member should have their own specific input regarding the progress of the brainstorming.
