Top 10 Tips for Ideas Generation

1. Get Everyone Involved

Many heads are better than one and another perspective can often shed extra light on a problem. To get the best solution, ask people within your organisation to come up with their own ideas and then open up the floor to allow discussion. 

2. Simplify the Problem

You could find that rewording the problem opens up new channels for discussion and idea generation. Consider the issue from different angles, looking at what barriers are in your way, your predictions for the future and potential outcomes. 

3. Create Time and Space

You need to be in the right frame of mind to achieve the most productivity from your brainstorming session. If you find that you are struggling, go for a walk and take a break from the formal meeting situation. Solutions are often found when you are focusing on them the least. 

4. Remove Distractions

Distractions such as constant phone calls, responding to emails and unexpected visitors can have a negative impact on your ability to make connections in your brain. Remove yourself from these distractions and allow yourself the space to approach the problem with clarity. 

5. Speak to Your End User

Your end user will have a better idea of what they would like from the products and services you are offering so it is important to include them in the creative process to find out how you can best help them with the resources you have available. You may want to set up a focus group to gauge feedback. 

6. Put Someone in Charge

Having a leader within your organisation who is committed to ensuring that idea generation takes place regularly will mean that you are continually moving forwards and innovating. 

7. Provide Encouragement

If you create a culture where ideas are recognised and welcomed then you will find that members of your organisation are more likely to vocalise their opinions on key issues. 

8. Record Inspirational Moments

Having a pen and notepad available nearby at all times will allow you to jot down ideas as and when they strike you. They may not be the finished article at this point but you will be able to develop them when you can sit down and give them more thought. 

9. Introduce Visual Guides

Picture prompts are very useful when trying to allow your brain to make connections. Bring visual techniques along to a brainstorming meeting to aid idea generation. 

10. Engage Your Team

At the end of a long day of hunting for a solution, you can rebuild energy levels by asking groups to develop a list of bad ideas. This will allow participants to take some time out and step away from the problem in hand, while having a good time and keeping the creativity alive. 

If these has put you in the mood to brainstorm and you would like more information about the Trust's upcoming ideas generation sessions, or would like to register please click here.