What is it?

A structured process to capture a group’s ideas relating to a topic or issue.

Why is it useful?

Helps you and your group generate wide-ranging ideas on any subject or topic.

Objectives

• To generate and capture a wide variety of ideas in a short space of time.
• To capture as many free-flowing ideas as possible.

When would you use it?

• Whenever you have an idea that needs “working.”
• When you need to involve other people in exploring an issue or idea.
• When you need to involve other people to explore an issue and/or its resolution.

Rules

Participants must feel free to contribute ideas creatively.

• No criticism (e.g. “That’s a silly idea”).
• No idea is a bad idea.
• Free-wheeling welcome.
• Quantity of ideas is key.
• No questions during the session.
• State ideas quickly, without explanation.
• Don’t mind stating the obvious.
• Don’t fear repetition.
• Combine and improve on other ideas.
• Be considerate of different contribution styles.

Resources Required

• Flipchart
• Pens
• Sticky dots (if voting at the end)
• Lots of open wall space

Roles

• Issue Owner – the person who wants the answer or output.
• Facilitator – runs the session, captures ideas, and keeps to process.
• Expert – may provide subject matter knowledge.
• Contributors – all those providing ideas.

Pre-Work

• Decide who should be invited.
• Prepare a clear explanation of the issue.
• Decide on the session structure: one topic or sub-topics?
• Will everyone work on everything or in groups?
• One session or multiple sessions?
• Length of the session?
• Will brainstorming be part of another activity?

Suggestions:

• Keep the group focused.
• Develop and maintain a tight brief.
• Keep to time.

Process

1. Facilitator role

Run and control the process, capture ideas without judgement, and contribute few ideas yourself.

2. Problem statement

Clearly state the problem or issue and ensure shared understanding.

3. Explain process

Outline the structure, time limits, and what will happen next with the output.

4. Phase 1 – Idea Generation

• Encourage participants to share ideas freely.
• Scribe captures all ideas exactly as stated.
• No judgements allowed.
• At the end, allow clarifying questions.

5. Phase 2 – Idea Grouping

• Review ideas one by one.
• Expand, combine, or eliminate duplicates.
• Group similar ideas under themes.

6. Phase 3 – Idea Review

• Identify standout “nugget” ideas that cut across groups.
• If prioritisation is needed, participants vote (e.g. 1st, 2nd, 3rd choice).

7. Output

If required, capture visible outputs (e.g. flipcharts) and summarise into a typed or graphical format for stakeholders.

Secret Sauce

• For large groups, split into sub-groups and merge outputs later.
• People will naturally comment on ideas – remind them (lightly, with humour) to stick to the rules during Phase 1.
• Ensure follow-up happens. When no action follows, it makes future brainstorming harder to run effectively.