Checklist Brainstorming

Perform and visualize brainstorming correctly

Brainstorming is one of the classic creativity techniques in a moderation. We dedicate this toolbox to the correct execution and visualization.

1. Preparation

Success-critical factor in the preparation of the brainstorming content into the correct development of the question. Formulate the brainstorming question as concretely and clearly as possible for your group of participants. It is the initial ignition into a helpful brainstorming process.

2. Clarify the rules of the game at the beginning of the brainstorming session

• Make sure that the brainstorming question has been accepted and understood by all participants.
• The cards are written in large, legible characters.
• One idea per card.
• The contributions are not discussed, each contribution is valid.

Tip: Prepare a sample card.

3. Collect

• The participants write their cards and attach them to the pinboard in a disordered and legible manner.
• If all contributions are hanging, ask the participants to read all cards.
• Unclear “Loreley cards” (“I don’t know what it means…”) are questioned and clarified by the card writer.

4. Order (clusters)

• In the next step, you are thematically related to similar cards. This is always done card by card in consultation with the participants. The participants suggest where the card belongs.
• In case of disagreement the author of the contribution decides.
• Several cards with the same statement will hang visibly from each other (because of the frequency of naming).
• All cards remain legible (even “funny” or double cards).
• If all the maps are arranged in subject areas, you will find headings for the clusters together with your participants.

5. After the brainstorming

For further processing of the topics, transfer the headings to a prepared, numbered topic memory (the numbering of the topics only gives structure, it does not refer to the relevance of the topic).

Finally, a few reflections on the flow of ideas and time: At the beginning of the brainstorming there is a surge of ideas. After that, the creative process flattens out and can even seem to come to a standstill. What is important here is that you endure this phase and do not end the brainstorming, but on the contrary that you “rekindle” the “association game” with the participants by an adapted or expanded question.