Brainstorming Techniques and Tools

1. Brainstorming Techniques and Tools

Brainstorming is an effective tool for generating creative solutions in conflict situations because it promotes open dialogue and diverse thinking. Allowing all parties to share ideas without immediate judgment fosters collaboration and helps break down barriers. Diverse perspectives are especially valuable in conflict resolution, as they lead to more comprehensive solutions.

While brainstorming has been discussed before, dedicating a full lesson to it deepens understanding and practice. Exploring different methods and tools enhances our ability to guide productive sessions, leading to more effective, mutually agreeable outcomes.

1a. Setting Ground Rules

In previous lessons, we’ve emphasized the need to separate people from problems in conflict management. Blaming statements attack a person’s character, leading to defensiveness and escalating the conflict, making resolution more difficult. Using I-statements shifts the focus to specific actions and their impact, promoting constructive dialogue. For example, instead of saying, “You’re irresponsible,” an I-statement would be “When you turn in the numbers late, I feel anxious because I need them to finish my report.” This approach addresses the behavior without attacking the person. Reminding parties of this during brainstorming can help set a productive tone.

In high-tension situations, establishing ground rules fosters a safe environment, encourages participants to contribute, and leads to more effective problem-solving.

Here are some general ground rules for brainstorming you can adapt to fit your own needs:

• Withhold judgment: Accept all ideas without criticism to encourage open sharing.
• Encourage wild ideas: Support unconventional thinking for innovative solutions.
• Prioritize quantity over quality: Aim for many ideas first; refinement comes later.
• Build on ideas: Collaborate by expanding on or combining others’ ideas.
• Stay focused: Keep discussions centered on the main topic.
• Speak one at a time: Ensure clarity by allowing one speaker at a time.
• Be visual: Use tools like whiteboards or sticky notes to capture ideas visually.

term to know

Ground Rules

Guidelines established to ensure a productive and respectful brainstorming session.

1b. Brainstorming Techniques

Brainstorming is a versatile tool in conflict resolution, allowing individuals or groups to generate a wide range of ideas to address issues creatively. While there are many approaches to brainstorming, each with its unique strengths, the key is to facilitate open and collaborative idea generation. Here, we explore several effective brainstorming techniques we haven’t yet covered in depth, providing examples of how they can be applied in conflict situations.

Traditional brainstorming is the most straightforward approach, where individuals or groups come together to generate as many ideas as possible related to the conflict without any critique or evaluation. The emphasis is on quantity over quality at this stage, encouraging participants to think freely and share even the most unconventional ideas.

EXAMPLE

In a workplace conflict where two departments are struggling with resource allocation, a traditional brainstorming session might involve team members listing all possible solutions, from reallocating the budget to implementing cross-training programs. The key here is that no idea is dismissed or criticized.

Mind mapping is a visual brainstorming technique that helps organize ideas around a central conflict. This method involves creating a diagram where the main issue is placed at the center, and related ideas branch out from it. This technique makes it easier to see connections between different concepts and identify potential solutions.

EXAMPLE

In a family dispute about holiday plans, a mind map could start with “Holiday Planning” at the center. Branches might include different aspects like “Destination,” “Budget,” “Activities,” and “Dates.” Further branches can explore various options within each category, helping the family visualize possible compromises and solutions.

The SCAMPER method was developed by Bob Eberle, an educational consultant and author, in the 1970s. It originated as a tool to help students enhance their creativity and problem-solving skills by encouraging them to think about existing ideas or products in new ways. SCAMPER is an acronym that stands for “substitute, combine, adapt, modify, put to another use, eliminate, and reverse.” Each prompt serves as a guide for generating innovative ideas by asking questions related to these different actions. Eberle built on earlier work by Alex Osborn, a pioneer in the field of creative thinking and brainstorming, and SCAMPER became widely adopted as a simple yet effective method for sparking creativity in various fields, from education to business. Even though it is an older tool, it is still helpful today.

EXAMPLE

In a project management conflict where team members disagree on the workflow, SCAMPER can be used as follows:

• Substitute: Could a different project management tool be used to improve efficiency?
• Combine: Can two different workflow steps be combined to save time?
• Adapt: Is there a process used by another department that could be adapted here?
• Modify: How could the current process be modified to better suit the team’s needs?
• Put to another use: Can existing resources be repurposed to meet the project’s requirements?
• Eliminate: Are there any unnecessary steps that could be eliminated to streamline the process?
• Reverse: What if we reversed the order of the workflow steps; how might that affect the outcome?

Reverse brainstorming flips the traditional approach by asking, “How could we cause the problem?” instead of “How can we solve the problem?” This method can uncover underlying issues and stimulate creative thinking about potential solutions.

EXAMPLE

In a conflict between neighbors over noise complaints, reverse brainstorming could involve asking, “What actions could make the noise issue worse?” Answers might include hosting more loud parties or playing music late at night. By identifying actions that could exacerbate the problem, the group can better understand the root causes and brainstorm effective solutions, such as soundproofing or setting quiet hours.

By applying various brainstorming techniques, groups can explore a broad spectrum of ideas, gain new perspectives on conflicts, and develop more innovative and comprehensive solutions. Whether one uses a mind map to visualize connections or SCAMPER to think outside the box, these methods help tap into collective creativity, making the problem-solving process more dynamic and effective.

terms to know

The SCAMPER Method

A brainstorming technique that encourages thinking about ideas by using prompts like substitute, combine, adapt, modify, put to another use, eliminate, and reverse.

Reverse Brainstorming

A technique where participants think of ways to create or enhance a problem and then use those ideas to generate solutions.

1c. Brainstorming Tools

Digital and physical tools can greatly enhance brainstorming, whether for remote or in-person teams. Digital tools like Miro, Mural, and Stormboard enable real-time virtual collaboration, allowing participants to share ideas, comments, and mind maps. These tools are particularly helpful for remote teams working across time zones, offering free limited plans and allowing asynchronous contributions. Google Suite and online meeting platforms also offer basic brainstorming features.

For in-person sessions, physical tools such as whiteboards, sticky notes, and flip charts help organize thoughts visually. Sticky notes can be used for brainstorming, where ideas are written down and later grouped for clarity. These tools can make the process more dynamic and interactive, helping participants visualize solutions more effectively.

Anonymous input tools like Poll Everywhere or digital suggestion boxes allow participants to provide honest feedback without fear of judgment, which is particularly useful in sensitive conflicts where open discussion may be inhibited by power dynamics.

These tools, when used correctly, make brainstorming more inclusive, organized, and effective, regardless of the setting.

terms to know

Digital Tools

Software or online platforms that facilitate brainstorming and idea organization, such as virtual whiteboards or mind-mapping apps.

Physical Tools

Tangible items like whiteboards, sticky notes, or markers used to capture and organize ideas during a brainstorming session.

Anonymous Input Tools

Methods or platforms that allow participants to submit ideas anonymously to encourage more open and honest contributions.

2. Brainstorming in Action

A successful brainstorming session requires careful planning, starting with selecting a neutral facilitator to guide discussions impartially and choosing an environment that encourages open participation. Preparing participants with a clear agenda and the necessary tools ensures a structured and creative session. During facilitation, it’s important to keep discussions on track, encourage input from everyone, and maintain a judgment-free zone to foster the free expression of ideas. Once ideas are generated, evaluate them using criteria like feasibility and impact, group similar concepts to streamline decision-making, and prioritize the most promising solutions for implementation. This organized approach helps move from idea generation to actionable outcomes effectively. Read on to learn more!

2a. Organizing a Brainstorming Session

A successful brainstorming session requires careful planning and consideration of several key factors. From selecting a neutral facilitator to choosing the right environment and preparing participants, each step plays a vital role in creating an effective and productive session.

step by step

Step 1: Set the Stage

• Select a Neutral Facilitator: Choosing a neutral facilitator ensures the session runs smoothly and remains unbiased. The facilitator should guide discussions without imposing personal opinions, encouraging participation, maintaining focus, and ensuring all ideas are heard. For instance, in a workplace conflict over project management methods, a neutral facilitator not directly involved in the project, like an HR representative or external mediator, can help maintain objectivity.
  • If you are the facilitator: Remain neutral even if you have a stake in the outcome. Begin by stating your role and the session’s ground rules, emphasizing idea generation without judgment. Acknowledge your position but reassure participants that your focus is on guiding the process. For example, if you’re a team leader facilitating a session on resource allocation, you might say, “I’m here to help us generate ideas on better resource allocation. My role is to ensure everyone contributes, not to share my own opinions.” Setting this expectation encourages open sharing, knowing the facilitator won’t dominate the discussion. Your role is to maintain structure, guide the flow of conversation, and create an inclusive environment.
• Choose an Appropriate Environment: The environment should foster open and creative thinking. It should be comfortable, distraction-free, and set up to promote collaboration. For in-person sessions, a room with a round table can encourage interaction and a sense of equality. For virtual sessions, using a reliable video conferencing platform with screen-sharing capabilities is essential. For instance, for a session about resolving interdepartmental conflicts, booking a neutral space like a conference room away from regular work areas signals that the session is a safe space for open dialogue. For remote teams, ensure the virtual platform is familiar and has features like breakout rooms for smaller group discussions.
• Prepare Participants: Clearly communicate the session’s purpose and goals beforehand, explaining ground rules like withholding judgment and encouraging creativity. Provide background information or pre-session materials so participants understand the context. Also, create a clear agenda, including time frames and structure. Choose brainstorming techniques and tools, like mind mapping or SCAMPER, and ensure all necessary materials are ready. For instance, in a family conflict about planning a large gathering, you might send an email outlining objectives, such as choosing a location and activities, and ask participants to think about their preferences and potential challenges. This preparation ensures that everyone is ready to contribute and understands the collaborative nature of the session. If you want to use mind mapping to explore solutions, include an agenda segment for initial idea generation, followed by organizing and connecting ideas visually. For virtual sessions, set up the digital mind mapping tool in advance and ensure participants know how to use it.

By selecting a neutral facilitator, choosing an appropriate environment, and preparing participants, you set the stage for an inclusive and structured brainstorming session that fosters creativity.

Step 2: Facilitate the Brainstorming Process
As a facilitator, remember you’re creating a structured yet flexible environment where participants feel encouraged to share their thoughts.

• Keep the session on track: Outline the agenda and time limits for each segment to keep the group focused. If the conversation veers off topic, gently steer it back by reminding participants of the session’s goals. For example, if a discussion about resource allocation turns into a policy debate, say, “These are important points, but let’s focus on resource allocation. We can discuss policy changes separately.”
• Encourage participation: Use techniques like “round-robin” sharing or breaking into smaller groups to ensure everyone contributes. For example, if a participant hasn’t spoken up, invite them by saying, “Alex, we’d love to hear your thoughts. Do you have any ideas to add?”
• Create a judgment-free zone: Reinforce the ground rule that all ideas are welcome. If someone suggests an impractical idea, thank them and add it to the list without critique, showing that every idea has value.

Step 3: Evaluate Ideas Once you’ve generated a variety of ideas, the next step is to evaluate and refine them.

• Establish criteria like feasibility, desirability, and potential impact. For instance, in a team conflict about workload distribution, assess ideas based on their feasibility and impact on team morale.
• Group similar ideas together to identify common themes, streamlining the decision-making process. If multiple suggestions involve improving communication, combine them into a broader category and then evaluate specific strategies within that category.
• After grouping and evaluating, prioritize ideas based on their potential effectiveness. Use a decision matrix or a simple voting system. For example, in a conflict about team roles, participants might vote on the top three ideas that could improve role clarity.
• Once you’ve identified the most promising ideas, discuss implementation steps, assign responsibilities, and set timelines. For example, if the solution involves cross-training employees, outline the training schedule, select trainers, and set a timeline.

By guiding the brainstorming process effectively and using structured evaluation techniques, you can help groups move from idea generation to actionable solutions that address conflicts meaningfully.

terms to know

Facilitator

An individual who guides the brainstorming session, ensuring it remains focused, inclusive, and productive.

Judgment-Free Zone

An environment where participants can share ideas without fear of criticism or evaluation.

2b. Overcoming Common Challenges in Brainstorming

Avoiding groupthink is key to a productive brainstorming session, as it ensures diverse ideas are considered. Encourage a range of viewpoints by inviting input from those with different perspectives. Designating a “devil’s advocate” can challenge assumptions and stimulate critical thinking. It’s important to ensure quieter participants contribute by directly asking for their opinions.

Managing dominant participants is also essential. Round-robin techniques, where each person shares their ideas in turn, can help balance contributions. In virtual settings, tools like anonymous polling or digital whiteboards allow everyone to contribute equally.

To handle idea overload, categorize similar ideas into groups to identify common themes. Using a decision matrix to evaluate ideas based on feasibility, impact, and alignment with goals helps narrow down options to the most promising solutions, leading to actionable outcomes.

terms to know

Groupthink

A phenomenon where the desire for harmony in a group leads to poor decision-making and the suppression of dissenting viewpoints.

Dominant Participants

Individuals who tend to control or overshadow the brainstorming process, potentially stifling contributions from others.

REFERENCES

De Bono, E. (1985). Six thinking hats. Penguin Books.