Brainstorming

Everyone is of equal rank while in the session. Keep the environment casual and open, so that each participant feels comfortable contributing any idea.

Frame your problem as “how might we” to open up to new possibilities.

Start with a clean slate. Go wide with solutions. Brainstorming sessions value quantity over quality. Don’t worry about feasibility. Make good use of all the ideas. You can even build on other ideas by using “and” not “but”.

Encourage participants to defer judgment. Deal with issues, not personalities. Stay positive during the session.

Remember to take notes during the session. Once you reach consensus or decision, create a list of action items.