“The best way to get
good idea is to get a lot of ideas” (Linus Pauling)
Brainstorming
is about getting as many ideas as possible from a group of people in short time. This is my favorite method. With a marker pen, whiteboard (or a mahjong
paper) and imaginations – together we all can create and contribute as many
ideas as possible. Ideas just flow and grow.
Dr. Yew Kam Keong in his most recommended book You Are Creative: Let Your Creativity Bloom
(3rd Edition), list out four basic guidelines to follow in
brainstorming:
1) No Criticism. Criticism of any idea expressed is absolutely forbidden.
2) No Evaluation. There should not be any evaluation of ideas during the idea generation
stage. Participants are encouraged to say whatever comes into their mind
without self-censorship. In fact the slogan is “The crazier, the better.”
3) Quantity of Idea. The very essence of brainstorming is to get as many ideas as possible.
Quantity is more important than quality.
4) Cross-Fertilize. Participants are encouraged to combine or modify any of the ideas
expressed to come out with new ideas. There should not be any individual
ownership of any specific ideas. Instead, there should be group ownership.
During the session of brainstorming, crazy
ideas are very welcome. Never be afraid to sound foolish. Only be afraid if you
don’t contribute at all. Try not to think too logic. Be free to use your
imagination, fantasy and visualization. Be creatively free! “Generally,” writes Dr. Yew, “crazy ideas by themselves are not useful. They are meant for
triggering off innovative ideas, which are ultimately practical.” By
the way, you also can do brainstorm individually. Just let your ideas flow.
Lord, Give Us Today Our
Daily Idea(s)
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