Generating IDEAS as a Source of Innovation

Problems cannot be solved with the same level of thinking that created them. Albert Einstein

We live in a complex world of challenges, often with no obvious answers. We need lots of ideas to figure out the next best step in the right direction. Pay attention to how you usually think about things, and how that approach might have constrained your vision. To step beyond traditional thinking you will need to challenge beliefs, "givens" and sacred cows. . . Deliverately challenge the underlying rules and concepts of the situation, and allow your mind to run free to step outside the boundaries of "thinking as usual."

The way to get good ideas is to get lots of ideas and throw the bad ones away. Linus Pauling

 

Brainstorming is the "shorthand" for audaciously pulling out all the stops to identify our best ideas on any issue. In brainstorming mode, there are no bad ideas, so reserve judgment for later. New ideas can be delicate, easily killed or worried to death by a frown or a sneer. At this point you are looking more for quantity more than quality -- even the craziest ideas might lead to thinking of one stupendous out of the box idea destined to be outrageous breakthrough thinking! In fact, the wilder the ideas, the more likely it will trigger out of the box thinking.

Take care to listen and build on the ideas of others: What can you add? What else? What does this idea make you think about? As you listen, make sure that there is only one conversation at a time to ensure that the group can capture all the ideas. Review and post the rules and hold the group to sticking with them.

Generating new ideas can be hard work, or it can be fun.

Use some of the following tools to expand traditional brainstorming and improve the thought output. New approaches can also take the pressure off a group that has been charged with finding creative and innovative solutions for complex situations where there are no obvious answers.

 

In times of crisis we all have the potential to morph up to a new level and do things we never thought possible. Never waste a good crisis, and if you have to, create one . . .

 

 

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