Forced Connections
Forced Connections is a creative thinking technique that breaks habitual thought patterns by making people draw links between their challenge and something entirely unrelated. You give the group a random object, image, or word, ask them to list its attributes, and then force connections between those attributes and the problem they are trying to solve. The result is a room full of people making leaps they would never make through logical brainstorming alone.
What You'll Achieve with the Forced Connections Workshop
Real outcomes that transform your team
Participants generate innovative ideas that may not surface through traditional brainstorming.
Teams break out of habitual thinking patterns, leading to more creative solutions.
When to Use the Forced Connections Workshop
Perfect for these situations and team challenges
When a team has exhausted traditional brainstorming methods and needs fresh ideas.
During product redesign sessions to explore unconventional solutions.
How the Forced Connections Workshop Works
A step-by-step breakdown of the workshop process
1Step 1: Frame the Challenge
In this step, the facilitator presents the problem statement to the group, ensuring everyone understands the challenge before proceeding. Participants are allowed a brief period for questions to clarify the challenge but are not yet solving it.
2Step 2: Introduce the Stimulus
Participants receive a random object to examine. They list its attributes, focusing on various characteristics beyond just physical traits. This step encourages exploration and sets the stage for creative connections.
3Step 3: Force the Connections
Groups take each attribute from their stimulus and brainstorm connections to the problem statement. The goal is to generate wild ideas and creative leaps by linking seemingly unrelated concepts.
4
Key Topics Covered in the Forced Connections Workshop
Ready to run workshops that create real change?
Two ways to get started:
Choose the path that works best for you
Do it Yourself
Perfect for facilitators, leaders and managers
- Instant access to sample frameworks
