However, for a brainstorming process to be truly effective, certain aspects and techniques must be taken into account, which we will mention in this article. In programs such as the Online Degree in Marketing or the Online Master in Marketing offered by the European University, this work methodology is valued and studied in depth. Keep reading to learn its key points.
What is brainstorming and what is it used for?
Brainstorming is a method by which people within a overseas chinese in uk data group exchange ideas without following a particular order or filter . Initially, these ideas are collected without any evaluation or criticism and then analyzed.
Brainstorming is used to generate a variety of unique and relevant ideas that help solve challenges or problems, similar to design thinking . Apart from fostering creativity and promoting different thinking approaches, it also helps establish a culture of innovation and agility . It also serves as a starting point for planning individual or collective projects .
Types and techniques of brainstorming
There are different approaches and techniques within brainstorming , each adapted to different situations and needs. Among the most important ones are:
Direct: This is the most common form of brainstorming and can generate a large number of ideas in a very short time. In direct brainstorming , participants come together and present their ideas as they come to mind.
Reverse thinking: This is the most commonly used technique when solving problems with creative solutions. It consists of thinking about the different ways of causing the problem, instead of how to solve it.
Individual: Each participant is tasked with thinking of ideas on their own before sharing them with the entire group. This is the preferred modality for those who prefer to reflect in private before presenting their ideas to others.
Star: Each participant writes down their ideas on sticky notes and then places them on a whiteboard. The group then discusses each of the proposals in detail.
Gordon: Participants present their ideas without prior knowledge of the problem they have to solve. This method facilitates the free expression of ideas and helps create the most innovative solutions.
Round Robin: Participants take turns sharing their ideas. This ensures that every team member has a chance to contribute.
Rolestorming : involves adopting different roles or perspectives to generate ideas, thus fostering creativity and diversity of thought.
Mind map: This is the most visual technique of all, through which participants organize and connect ideas based on a central idea.
What if…?: Participants play out fictional situations to solve a particular problem. This way, they can explore different scenarios and let their imaginations run wild.
Basic rules of brainstorming
When organizing a brainstorming session , there are several basic rules that should be followed to make the experience truly productive:
Ideas must flow freely: spontaneity favors creativity.
Quantity is more important than quality: At the creative stage, it is better to collect many ideas, even if they are not of high quality, to increase the chances of finding the most valuable ones.
It is beneficial to establish connections between ideas and make improvements: a new idea can come from anywhere and everyone can improve it. That is why active listening is essential.
No evaluations or criticisms are accepted: all people involved in the brainstorming must feel free to express their ideas without restrictions.
Steps for effective brainstorming
Now that you know the rules of brainstorming , it is important that you also know how to organize one through the following steps:
State the problem: A brainstorming meeting should begin with a clear presentation of the problem or issue to be addressed. It is crucial to define it properly to avoid confusion when proposing solutions later.
Establish the methodology: the creative director or a similar professional will be the person in charge of explaining the brainstorming process and acting as moderator during its execution.
Brainstorming : This is the time to present all the ideas that come to the minds of the participants. At this point, it is essential that everyone participates and contributes as many ideas as possible.
Final selection: at the end of the brainstorming session , the best ideas are selected based on their usefulness and feasibility for later implementation.
Brainstorming is a powerful tool that fosters creativity and collaboration . By following basic rules and using different techniques learned in degrees such as the Higher Degree in Online Marketing and Advertising , innovative ideas can be generated and problems solved effectively and more easily.