How do you use brainstorming to generate creative solutions for complex problems?

One of the really important aspects of defining the problem is to do so without leading the participants towards a solution. Keeping the brainstorming exercise as open and unconstrained as possible will allow for a wider range of potential solutions.

"How can we share knowledge to keep our company alive for many years to come?" Corporate memory or knowledge sharing is a problem because no one this day is willing to share and transfer it. Every new employee is left in the dark when it comes to technical knowledge about a certain product or training without mentor or guidance beside him.

The important thing about setting the rules is that you clearly define your expectations for the exercise both in what the participant should expect (how to share ideas, how to interact with other participants, how long the session will last, how ideas will be evaluated) as well as what your desired outcome for the exercise is.

This might need to be moved up in the order to prior to "Set the Rules". The methodology that is chosen will impact how it is presented to the participants. It is important to note that in the methodology portion of Brainstorming that it is important to visibly record all ideas in a way that the participants can see them. For readability, consider changing the presentation of the examples (Brainwriting, Mind Mapping, and Role Playing) to bullets. Might also want to add additional examples.

Incorporate creativity techniques like mind mapping, analogies, role-playing, or reverse thinking to stimulate innovative ideas. These techniques can help break through mental barriers and uncover new possibilities. It's important to foster an atmosphere of open communication and non-judgment. All ideas should be accepted and recorded without immediate evaluation or criticism. This encourages participants to think creatively and express their thoughts freely.

Establish specific evaluation criteria based on your problem statement and desired outcomes. Consider factors such as feasibility, scalability, cost-effectiveness, alignment with organizational goals, and potential impact on stakeholders. Use an objective scoring system or rating scale to assess each idea against the established criteria. Assign numerical values or ratings to different aspects of the idea, such as feasibility, novelty, potential risks, or resource requirements. This helps quantify and compare the ideas objectively. Without an objective scoring system, the ideators may be resistant to the idea selected.

To ensure that people enjoy brainstorming and fully engage in the process, create a safe and inclusive environment. Establish a positive and non-judgmental atmosphere where participants feel comfortable expressing their ideas freely. Encourage open-mindedness and emphasize that all ideas are welcome and valuable. Avoid criticizing or dismissing ideas during the brainstorming session, as this can stifle creativity and discourage participation.

One section that you may consider adding is which audience you would choose to brainstorm with. Having a range of users and knowledge bases included in your session leads to more diverse and out of the box thinking than a focus group who are already on the same page. Often it useful to have members wear many hats and think of the end user at all times. Also, never be quick to dismiss any ideas because it may be too hard or take longer as it could be what's right for the user.