Brainstorming is a collaborative technique designed to generate a wide range of ideas around a specific question or challenge. Participants are encouraged to share thoughts freely, without judgment, in order to tap into creativity, build on each other’s suggestions, and uncover solutions that might not emerge through formal discussion.
Key Features of Brainstorming #
- Free Idea Generation: Early in the session, ideas are offered without critique or evaluation.
- Quantity over Quality: The more ideas produced, the greater the chance for innovative outcomes.
- Encouragement of Unusual Ideas: Even seemingly odd suggestions are welcomed, because they often spark entirely new directions.
- Structured or Unstructured Format: Sessions can be informal or guided, with prompts like silent idea writing, round-robin sharing, or role-based contributions.
Benefits of Brainstorming #
Brainstorming supports team creativity by drawing on diverse perspectives and creating a safe space for expression. It can quickly generate abundant ideas, lead to deeper engagement, and foster a sense of collective ownership over solutions.
Some Considerations While Brainstorming
- Without a clear facilitator and process, brainstorming may become chaotic or dominated by strong personalities.
- Ideas generated might be broad or unrealistic unless followed by a process of refinement, prioritization, and implementation.
- It’s vital to capture all ideas during the session so nothing is lost and later stages of analysis can begin.
When to Brainstorm? #
- At the beginning of a project when you need to explore possibilities or set direction.
- In strategy sessions or workshops where diverse input is helpful.
- To involve stakeholders in problem-solving or planning in a participatory way.
Brainstorming isn’t just throwing ideas around; it’s a deliberate way to unlock creativity, build shared thinking, and kick off meaningful discussions. When facilitated well and followed by structured next steps, it becomes a powerful starting point for innovation and action.
List of recommended resources #
For a broad overview #
This article by the Interaction Design Foundation gives a brief about brainstorming, its various techniques, and how to use AI effectively for better brainstorming.
Brainstorming: How-tos, templates, and tips
This article by Canva gives an overview of how to brainstorm, the different methods of brainstorming used nowadays, as well as some templates to chart brainstorming sessions.
For in-depth understanding #
Brainstorming and Beyond
This book by Chauncey Wilson describes various methods for brainstorming, i.e., for generating ideas verbally, in writing, or through sketches. The methods provided in this book equip readers with ways to generate, present, and evaluate ideas so they can begin building a strong foundation for product success.
What is brainstorming and how to apply it in your strategies?
This article by IMD gives an in-depth understanding of the brainstorming process, starting with the benefits of this technique, how to brainstorm effectively, the different brainstorming techniques, as well as some tips on how to make brainstorming a part of one’s strategic process.
Case study #
Georgia Competitive Industries Preliminary Sector Diagnostic
This report by Ifeyinwa Onugha, Mariana Iootty, Austin Kilroy, and Vincent Palmade incorporates ideas and recommendations received during February 28-March 1, 2013 seminar and several smaller workshops and brainstorming sessions held in March-May 2013 for creating a roadmap to enhance Georgia’s export growth and competitiveness.
Smart Contract Technology and Financial Inclusion
This note by the World Bank Group examines the growing role of FinTech – the intersection of finance and technology – in driving economic development, particularly through enhanced financial inclusion. It provides policymakers and WBG staff with the essential background needed to **brainstorm** effective ways to leverage smart contracts for promoting productivity in local economies.
