Idea Generation Techniques

Study Notes

Idea Generation

Definition

Idea generation is the process of producing and collecting ideas, often in a group or team setting, to solve a problem or achieve a goal.

Techniques

1. Brainstorming

Free-flowing, unstructured idea generation
Focus on quantity, not quality
Encourage wild and creative ideas

2. Mind Mapping

Visual representation of ideas and concepts
Start with a central idea, then branch out to related ideas
Can help identify relationships and patterns

3. Reverse Brainstorming

Identify a problem, then think of ways to make it worse
Can help identify potential pitfalls and generate creative solutions

4. SCAMPER

SCAMPER is an acronym that stands for:
- Substitute
- Combine
- Adapt
- Modify
- Put to Another Use
- Eliminate
- Rearrange
Apply these different perspectives to existing ideas to generate new ones

5. Starbursting

Take a central idea, then generate as many new ideas as possible around it
Focus on generating a large quantity of ideas

Best Practices

Encourage a diverse and inclusive group of participants
Establish a safe and non-judgmental environment
Use a facilitator to guide the process and keep participants on track
Set a time limit to keep the process focused and efficient
Defer judgment and evaluation of ideas until later in the process

Benefits

Generates a large number of ideas
Encourages creative thinking and collaboration
Can help identify and solve problems
Can lead to innovative solutions and products

Description

Learn about different idea generation techniques such as brainstorming, mind mapping, and SCAMPER to improve creative thinking and collaboration. Discover the benefits and best practices of idea generation.