How To Run a Successful Brainstorm Session

1. How To Run a Successful Brainstorm Session

2. Discuss the Objectives of the Exercise • Relate big picture business goals • Make sure players realize why they have been invited • Set up the specific goals for the program

3. Set Up a Relaxed and Open Environment • Try to meet at a fresh location that may be less stressful • Provide refreshments and music upon entering • Eliminate negative or stressful personalities

4. Set a Positive and Focused Tone • Work to get the team in the mind set of your intended customer by providing customer examples or case studies • Use humor and positive examples to encourage ideas

5. Set the Guidelines for Success • Make sure presented ideas are NOT challenged or “put down” • State up front that those who consistently make negative comments will be ejected

6. Have Appropriate Tools Available • Be truly ready • Have a white board or large tablet • Assign a scribe • Have access to the internet and corporate intranet for quick reference • Make sure you eliminate all interruptions or conflicts

7. The Moderator - Key to Success • Must be someone the group will trust with ideas • Should be confident with subject matter • Should pose questions to get group back on track only when needed • Example: • What features do you think our customers value the most?

8. Idea Collection • Set up a relay system to deliver ideas • Have the scribe write large enough so ideas can display and branch off of each other

9. Create Energy Around These New Ideas • Have the team refine and then present the final ideas • Publicly post final ideas • Follow through on best ideas to create energy across the organization