Brainstorming

Brainstorming: produce an idea or way of solving a problem by holding a controlled, open ended group discussion.

1. Objective (actual goal of the brainstorm)
   • Setting an objective is critical to an effective brainstorm because it focuses those participating on a clear goal. Effective brainstorming is not a free flow of ideas about everything. Rather, effective brainstorming is a free flow of ideas about solving specific problems.
2. Materials (i.e., post it, loose leaf, flip chart paper, markers, glue sticks, scissors)
   • Materials are a big part of any brainstorm. In fact, we should attempt to find new and unique materials during brainstorms to help our minds think differently. I prefer using some form of written component during brainstorms as people are typically more willing to share their ideas if they have written them down and constructed their responses before openly sharing them.
3. Individual Development of Ideas (number of ideas within a specified amount of time)
   • This time enables and enforces everyone in the group to participate. As you all know, some people tend to dominate in thought during free flowing times such as brainstorms. Isolating a time for everyone to construct thoughts individually ensures everyone has a chance to use their mind.
4. Partner Development of Ideas (number of ideas within a specified amount of time)
   • At our very core we are creative people meant to collaborate in our thoughts. Partnering allows us to form our ideas more holistically by building upon our ideas with others thoughts, adding ideas together, or formulating new ideas while listening to others.
5. Screening of Ideas (narrow down options)
   • Once you have laid out all the ideas with your partner(s), its time to narrow down your options to those that are feasible and of good quality.
6. Selection (decide, refine and pursue)
   • Did your brainstorm deliver a meaningful solution to the problem you are attempting to solve? Who knows? Most of the time we uncover at least one-two ideas worth pursuing to see if they are viable options for solving the problem. In the event that you have nothing, this is a great time to expand your brainstorm to other people. In some situations you need to go out into the world and complete a survey to gather more ideas and thoughts. This is essentially going back to step 4. Ask people, have you ever had a problem solving X? What do you wish you could do to solve X?
7. Pitch Idea (“safe” sharing of selected idea)
   • Now it is time to bring your ideas to the table. In some instances you may not have to pitch but in our class we will pitch our ideas nearly every time. This helps us learn how to construct a 30 second explanation of our ideas. We will learn how to pitch well in this class but in the meantime all you need to know about the pitch is that you are telling a story that should connect with people emotionally.

• Defer Judgement - There are no bad ideas at this point. There will be plenty of time to narrow them down later.
• Encourage Wild Ideas - Even if an idea doesn't seem realistic, it may spark a great idea for someone else.
• Build on the Ideas of Others - Think "and" rather than "but"
• Stay Focused on the Topic - To get more out of your session, keep your brainstorm question insight.
• One Conversation at a Time - All ideas need to be heard, so that they can be built upon.
• Be Visual - Draw your ideas, as opposed to just writing them down. Stick figures and simple sketches can say more than many words.
• Go for Quantity - Set an outrageous goal - then surpass it. The best way to find one good idea is to come up with lots of ideas.

Vocabulary:

• Brainstorming

Student Activity

Complete the brainstorming process for your Pepsi Co product. Work within your group when appropriate.