Brainstorming sessions, thought by many to be the bane of corporate existence, actually do work, new research shows. But, the researchers said, you have to do it right.
While brainstorming can actually be useful in real-world business environments, the process can be short-circuited if team leaders come into brainstorming sessions with preconceived notions.
The study pinpointed 21 specific best practices that contribute to successful brainstorming efforts. They are divided into three broad categories:
- Attendance at sessions and communications;
- Brainstorming structure and timing; and
- Team effort.
Some of the best practices include: Including subject-matter experts in sessions, being open to input from all members, doing your homework by becoming familiar with issues before brainstorming meetings, holding more than one session, and, if you’re a leader, setting the right tone.