Brainstorming Techniques

Creative brainstorming techniques can only happen if the preparations have been properly addressed. When a team leader plans a session they should contact all members and give them a brief idea of what the session topic will be. Each member will then attend the session already focused and ready with a few ideas.

Select a diverse group of people with a wide range of experiences. This will give the group a wide range of ideas or solutions.

One of the better creative brainstorming techniques is to have the group create their own ground rules. This is too establish that the rules are followed and each member realizing they are responsible to keep the rules.

On the list of creative brainstorming techniques is the use of stop and go signs. Every group member is given one stop sign on a card and one go sign on a card. If any member uses a killer phrase or breaches the rules, other members hold up the stop sign. If the flow of ideas is going smoothly and starts to gain momentum, members hold up the go sign.

Use popular creative brainstorming techniques get both sides of the brain working with the group members. An example would be word association or reverse thinking (create a worse problem instead of a good solution).

The team leader should periodically present ideas to the group that they can expand and improve on.

Continue using creative brainstorming techniques by letting the group's ideas flow unrestricted within reason. The team leader should monitor the group to ensure they stay on track and do not stray from the topic.

Use props like throwing a ball at each group member and have them present their idea as they catch the ball. This is guaranteed to keep every team member on their toes and the creative flow of ideas to continue at a fast pace.

Keep the brainstorming session light and fun by creating new brainstorming techniques for every session. The group members will be excited with the idea of expecting the unexpected that sparks the flow of ideas before the session has started.

Create a list of words that you as the team leader pick at random. Present each word to the group then point to each member to give an idea to match that word. Select members out of order to keep the group alert and motivated.

Creative brainstorming techniques are the basic to every productive brainstorming session. It is the leader's responsibility to stay one step ahead by constantly coming up with new techniques.

Most companies depend on having creative brainstorming sessions that produce massive quantities of ideas or solutions. Brainstorming session can very well be the solid foundation that keeps a company running and high in sales and profits. If a brainstorming session gets stalled for ideas, it could possibly mean a low fiscal quarter for the company. So do not treat a brainstorming session lightly it weighs more than you think for creating new services or products for a company.