STORMING THE BRAIN-WHAT IS IT? A GROUP THINKING PROCESS, A TECHNIQUE AND A TOOL FOR PRODUCING IDEAS FOR ANY GROUI • combats institutional boggle by generating new perspectives, projects and ideas What can be done about automobile industry layoffs? • stimulates the creation of new institutions How can halfa million dollars be raised for a museum ofscience and industry? • produces alternatives in a problem-crisis dilemma What can be done about low stream-flow in the winter months? • inventories resources in a subject area as a way of initiating a file or a directory What are some instances of urban agriculture in Portland? • enhances cooperation and trust among participants Determine a location A relaxed but interesting atmosphere, preferably new to most participants, stands the best chance of encouraging fresh perspectives. Determine a time The first and last days of the work week are not usually the best times to get the group's undivided attention. A poll of our office suggests that morning rather than afternoon may be a preferred time for idea-spinning. Many sessions will, by necessity, have to be held during evening hours or on Saturdays. Should a briefing document be prepared? Is it necessary to provide participants with background information? APPOINT A FACILITATOR The facilitator should be a good communicator, able to prevent some members from dominating and some from holding back, able to stimulate and restate ideas without taking sides. SELECT GROUP MEMBERS Depends, in part, on your purpose Creativity is not a criterion The brainstorming process produces ideas for folks like us. Different interests/experiences should be represented Invite people with opposing viewpoints. Balance the group in terms of those who are acquainted and those who aren't acquainted. The right amount of tension can result in a state of "creative instability," in which people are stimulated to express themsleves, but not inhibited by the expressions of others. STATE THE PROBLEM State the problem in a single sentence Write it on the chalkboard or on butcher paper where it will be visible throughout the session. After the statement has been drawn up by the group, the facilitator should ask for confirmation: Is this the way we want to state the problem?
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