Brainstorming is a cornerstone of creativity and problem-solving. But if your brainstorming sessions feel stale or uninspired, it might be time to shake things up with some less conventional techniques. While popular methods like mind mapping and group discussions have their merits, exploring lesser-known approaches can lead to breakthrough ideas and unexpected solutions.
Here we uncover seven little-known brainstorming techniques that can help you generate fresh ideas, think outside the box, and revitalize your creative process.
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1. Reverse Brainstorming
Sometimes the best way to solve a problem is to think about how to make it worse. Reverse brainstorming flips the traditional approach by asking participants to brainstorm ideas that would exacerbate the problem or prevent success. While it may sound counterintuitive, this technique can lead to surprising insights.
How It Works:
- Define the problem or goal.
- Ask, “What could we do to make this problem worse?”
- List all the negative ideas without judgment.
- Reverse the ideas to identify potential solutions.
Example: If the goal is to improve customer service, brainstorm ways to make customer service terrible. Then, flip those ideas into actionable strategies for improvement.
2. The SCAMPER Technique
SCAMPER is an acronym for Substitute, Combine, Adapt, Modify, Put to another use, Eliminate, and Reverse. This technique encourages you to ask targeted questions about an existing idea, product, or process to uncover new possibilities.
How It Works:
- Substitute: What can you replace to improve the idea?
- Combine: Can you merge elements to create something new?
- Adapt: How can you adjust the idea to meet new needs?
- Modify: What changes can make the idea better?
- Put to another use: Can the idea serve a different purpose?
- Eliminate: What can you remove to simplify or enhance the idea?
- Reverse: What happens if you flip or invert the concept?
Example: Use SCAMPER to improve a product, like a coffee mug, by asking questions such as, “What materials could we substitute for better insulation?” or “Can we combine it with a travel lid for on-the-go use?”
3. Brainwriting
Brainwriting is an excellent alternative to traditional group brainstorming, especially for teams where certain voices dominate. In this technique, participants write down their ideas anonymously before sharing them with the group.
How It Works:
- Distribute slips of paper or use a digital tool for anonymous submissions.
- Set a timer for participants to write down their ideas.
- Collect and review the ideas as a group.
- Build on the ideas collaboratively.
Example: During a session to generate marketing campaign ideas, team members submit their concepts anonymously. The group then reviews and expands on each idea without bias.
4. Lotus Blossom Technique
This visual brainstorming method helps teams break down complex problems into smaller, manageable components. The Lotus Blossom Technique organizes ideas into a central theme and related subcategories.
How It Works:
- Write the main problem or idea in the center of a grid.
- Surround it with eight related ideas.
- For each related idea, create a new grid with additional sub-ideas.
- Repeat as needed to develop a comprehensive set of solutions.
Example: Use the Lotus Blossom Technique to brainstorm features for a new app. Start with “App Features” in the center, then expand outward with specific categories like “User Interface” and “Content.”
5. Role Storming
Role storming encourages participants to step into different roles or personas to generate ideas from new perspectives. By imagining how someone else would approach the problem, you can uncover fresh solutions.
How It Works:
- Assign roles to participants (e.g., a customer, competitor, or industry expert).
- Ask them to brainstorm ideas as if they were in that role.
- Share and discuss the ideas as a group.
Example: When brainstorming ideas for a new product, ask participants to role-play as customers and describe what features they’d want most.
6. Random Word Association
This creative technique uses random words as prompts to inspire new ideas. By forcing your brain to make unexpected connections, you can unlock innovative solutions.
How It Works:
- Choose a random word (use a dictionary, online tool, or draw from a jar).
- Write the word on a board and brainstorm how it relates to your problem.
- Use the associations to spark new ideas.
Example: If you’re brainstorming ways to improve office productivity and draw the word “forest,” you might explore ideas like creating quiet zones (inspired by the stillness of a forest) or adding plants to the workspace for a calming effect.
7. Crazy 8s
Crazy 8s is a fast-paced, visual brainstorming technique that encourages participants to generate multiple ideas quickly. This method is especially effective for design and creative projects.
How It Works:
- Give each participant a sheet of paper divided into eight sections.
- Set a timer for 8 minutes.
- Ask participants to sketch one idea in each section (1 idea per minute).
- Review and discuss the sketches as a group.
Example: Use Crazy 8s to brainstorm logo designs for a new brand. Each team member sketches 8 potential ideas, providing a wide variety of concepts to evaluate.
Brainstorming doesn’t have to be predictable or repetitive. By incorporating these seven lesser-known techniques into your process, you can breathe new life into your sessions and uncover fresh, innovative ideas. Whether you’re tackling a work project, solving a problem, or seeking creative inspiration, these methods will help you think outside the box and achieve your goals.
Ready to elevate your brainstorming game? Try one of these techniques in your next session and watch the ideas flow!