So you want to brew the perfect brainstorm huh!
Brainstorms can be fickle creatures. The very nature of them – revolving around inspiration and innovation – means that the level of success in a brainstorm can often fluctuate pretty majorly. This can provide a considerable hurdle in any project, as without proper brainstorming, the working process itself becomes more difficult.
But, much like any creature, brainstorms can be tamed. Given the right mindset – and the right methods – even the most low energy brainstorm can be incredibly productive, so long as it is gone about the right way.
Getting on the Same Page
The first step to any good brainstorm is making sure everyone present is aware of the purpose of the meeting, and are unified in the overarching direction the project should be going in.
Starting any brainstorm by spending the beginning briefly checking through all this actually saves you a lot of time and effort in the long run, because it prevents the need for further clarification or any misunderstandings throughout the brainstorm itself. It’s simple, yes, but generally the best working methods are.
Getting on the Same Targets
While getting on the same page and getting on the same targets sound similar, thy are actually pretty different. Unlike getting on the same page, getting on the same target means making sure everyone is aware what their individual goals are – for both the brainstorm and in general.
While getting on the same page and getting on the same targets sound similar, thy are actually pretty different. Unlike getting on the same page, getting on the same target means making sure everyone is aware what their individual goals are – for both the brainstorm and in general.
When people know their personal significance in the brainstorm, they’re more likely to keep tabs on the parts relevant to them – meaning everyone gets that little bit more from the overall experience.
Getting Heard
Now that everyone is working as one badass hivemind, it’s time to get to the nittiest, grittiest part of brainstorming. While getting everyone joined in their goals and aims is vital, it ultimately means little if people aren’t comfortable to share all their ideas. An inevitable part of brainstorming is putting out ideas that may not work, so making sure people don’t feel silly doing so is paramount to success.
Although knowing exactly what makes an environment where everyone is willing to throw all possible ideas can be difficult, tweaking the setting, structure and set up to see what works best will pay sevenfold when the right balance is found. Good luck, keep practising and you’ll be on your way to brewing the perfect brainstorm!