• Define the problem and start brainstorming, "Wouldn't it be great if..."

• Clarify the objective.

• Have a brief warm-up session, using a common problem or object

• Brainstorm as many ideas as possible in a short time-frame. Encourage cross-fertilization. Allow time for silent reflection. When the group seems to have exhausted its ideas, ask them for ten more. Record and display all ideas. Make sure that no critical remarks are made.

• Ask the group to identify any assumptions they hold.

• Establish criteria for selecting the feasible ideas.

• Choose the best idea.

• Evaluate the idea you chose. Reverse brainstorm to identify the failure risks, or use weighted criteria for a more complete analysis.

Brainstorming