Saturday, December 12, 2015

Brainstorming as a Culture

Brainstorming That Works describes it the following way:
The expression brain storm and the word brainstorming was popularized in Applied Imagination by Alex Osborn. The word is a perfect description of the brain's process. Many synapses start firing and multiple associations stored in the brain get recalled. The point is to get so many thoughts coming up simultaneously and triggering so many other thoughts and ideas that your mind's alter ego that likes to think negative thoughts can't get a word in edge wise. 
The little boat is the problem statement :)

So what does brainstorming require? Well really, it is a very simple list.
  1. As stated above, have a clear problem statement. What is the goal of this session? Don't be so focused that you limit the innovation, but still be clear.
  2. Everybody participates. I'm highlighting that one because it is the one I feel is most important. I am dedicated to the Learning Organization and this is a big part of that. I don't think you'll get the best ideas if your STORM is limited to a room of architects. 
  3. As Tom Kelley states in his book, set a goal for a one hour meeting. He found that 100 ideas in that time equals a good session.
  4. Have fun. Consider this a benefit. You are creating a culture that will attract the best talent. Allow the comedic solutions, in fact, encourage them. 
As a Learning Organization we all strive to utilize all brain power to spark innovation. Brainstorming is a must-have in this culture. Not once-in-a-while, but constantly
The more it is used, the more influence it will have on your corporate culture.
You'll see creativity sparking here and there on a regular basis because the juices are flowing and everyone feels that it is not only allowed to contribute on this level, but expected.
Once word gets out, you'll enjoy knowing that you've just updated your company's reputation to "a cool place to work"

In summary, by implementing brainstorming into your planning or sprints, you'll generate more innovative ideas, foster a more collaborative environment, strengthen your learning organization, and build a better reputation that'll attract and retain the best talent. .
Oh yeah, and it is practically free  :)


ENJOY