| Printers often ask us what the “swirl thing” is in our new Ink Inc. logo. We call it… the Brainstorm. It is a graphic representation of all of the brainstorming we do at Ink Inc.
The Ink Inc. Guidelines for a Good Brainstorming Session
- Clearly define the objective or problem that needs to be overcome at the beginning of the session.
- As a way to get everybody involved immediately, go around the circle and ask everybody if they have a solution or idea.
- Invite an extra person from a different department to participate.
- Keep the group size small… four to six participants seem best. Too few people result in too few ideas. Too many people and some will feel intimidated and shy.
- All brainstorming participants are “equal.” There is no boss or manager in the meetings. The less structure the better. The whole point is to be creative and see things from a fresh perspective.
- When an idea is presented that you don’t like, ignore it instead of being critical. If you have an alternative idea, present it now.
- Allow the momentum of the “best idea” to pull you in the direction of a solution. As the best idea becomes apparent, everyone tends to jump aboard and support it. This is where it really gets fun. Enjoy the moment. Everyone is happy and feeling good. Brainstorming solves another problem… and builds the team.
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