IDEA GENERATION TECHNIQUES Brainstorming Scenario thinking Gordon Method

IDEA GENERATION TECHNIQUES Brainstorming, Scenario thinking, Gordon Method

BRAINSTORMING

BRAINSTORMING Brainstorming (verb) – the act of generating ideas or ways of solving problems where all ideas are recorded for further discussion and analysis while the issue stated must be understood by all participants.

Process of brainstorming 1. Brainstorm ideas and suggestions within an agreed time limit. 2. Categorize/ condense/ combine/ refine 3. Assess/ analyze effects or expected results 4. Prioritize options/ rank in order of appropriateness 5. Agree on an action and a deadline 6. Control and monitor follow up

Advantages of Brainstorming • One person’s idea can stimulate other ideas. • Results in a variety of ideas

Disadvantages of Brainstorming • The process may be chaotic • May be necessary to lay some ground rules

When is brainstorming most commonly used? • Brainstorming is most commonly used in the development strategy of new partnership ventures as well as new product creation

SCENARIO THINKING

Scenario Thinking • Scenario Thinking aka Scenario planning – a strategic planning method that some organizations use to make flexible long term plans.

Process of scenario thinking

Advantages 1. Provides alternative views of the future 2. Encourages knowledge exchange in understanding the future

Disadvantages • Scenario Planners may not be well experienced

When may scenario planning be used best? • Scenario planning may be used when, for example, a group of executives set out to develop ideas about how the business would unfold in the future and how it would affect them and their customers.

GORDON METHOD

Gordon Method • Gordon Method – this is a method of idea generation used for developing new ideas when persons are unaware of the problem at hand. • A general concept is presented and the group responds with solutions and ideas.

Process of the Gordon Method • A general concept of the problem at hand is presented to a group of persons. • The group responds with a number of suggestions or ideas which can assist in solving the general problem. • This may lead to a concept being developed.

Advantages • Using this method can result in numerous ideas being presented.

Disadvantages • This method is dependent on how competent the group is with critical thinking.