10 Top Tips to… Getting the Most Out of Brainstorming.

Brainstorming is a technique for getting lots of ideas on a subject. Here are 10 tips on how to get the most from these discussions.

1. Set a time limit on the brainstorming
2. Find a comfortable quiet room. If you can, pick a space not used by your team for any other purpose. They will be stimulated by the new surroundings.
3. Set goals that are SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, Time-Bound)
4. Only offer ideas when it is your turn, between turns write down ideas
5. Embrace the ridiculous – Strange as it sounds, the very best ideas are often born from the very worst.
6. Anything goes! Don’t try and evaluate ideas as they come out
7. Say “pass” if you do not have an idea to offer
8. Never criticise, question or even praise other’s ideas during the brainstorm
9. Keep the tempo fast, this releases more ideas
10. Avoid group thinking – encourage people to disagree and offer an alternative. Play Devil’s advocate.