Yonkers

Whoever said, “two heads are better than one” was clearly on to something.

One of the most resilient, tried and tested creative processes, brainstorming allows teams to conceptualise innovative ideas and solve problems which would take a single mind much longer to achieve, if at all.

The power of brainstorming is such that it transcends all industries and with the creation of professional think tanks is a thriving industry in itself.

So, why is brainstorming so effective?

It allows teams to take a wide angled approach to an idea or problem and find a solution drawing on the varying skillsets and thought processes from individuals with differing specialisations.

Frequent brainstorming sessions are commonplace in most companies that drive innovation. These companies use the collective brainpower from employees and experts outside of their organisations to stay at the forefront of modernisation and advancement, leaving behind their competitors.

But, when was the last time you tapped into the combined creativity of your employees?

It can be all too easy to find yourself and your team, heads down, headphones in, charging toward a fast approaching deadline with little consideration for the creative substance, or lack thereof behind the project.

Taking the time to come together and thrash out ideas can turn a good idea into a great idea or be the difference between winning or losing an important pitch.

What does it take to facilitate a successful brainstorm?

Firstly, ensure you outline a concise set of objectives before you bring heads together. A disorganised brainstorm can quickly descend into chaos.

Secondly, begin with quantity over quality. No idea is a bad idea and the more you explore the more likely you are to arrive at an idea that is unique and truly innovative.

Although creativity is key, it’s important to have a strong moderator to keep the ideas and discussions moving forward and on topic.

Once you’ve brainstormed a broad selection of thoughts, it’s time to cluster, sort, connect, dissect and combine the best ideas.

Take time to pull apart the big ideas that may initially seem impossible and build on concepts that may seem all too simple. You never know which ideas could pave the way to ground-breaking new products, revolutionary process improvements or innovative solutions.

Once you’ve agreed on the ideas you’d like to take forward, put processes in place to ensure they actually come to fruition. Ideas do not grow businesses; acting on them does.

Brainstorming doesn’t just lead to innovation and new ideas – it can also be transformational for the participants. It is empowering for individuals to participate in creative problem solving and having their voices heard and valued builds confidence which in turn breeds productivity.

Brainstorming should be a constant tool in your business’s armoury. Its outcomes can help you make waves and move forward with innovation at the front of the pack.

If you need any support to run powerful brainstorming sessions, contact us, it is easy: info@innotio.eu