4 Matching Annotations
  1. Oct 2024
    1. Let’s use the analogy of ‘fishing’ to explore the idea of converting users to buyers, for example. Encourage participants to think of ideas and solutions to the problem using this analogy: in fishing, we need the correct bait to catch the bigger fish – this is also true for users we want to convert – we need to bait our users with the right content if we want to catch them.

      I haven't encountered this type of brainstorming before and I can see the utility in it. Particularly for complicated concepts or systems where there are barriers or constraints that seem insurmountable, likening it to a simpler idea can provide a blueprint to get to the solution. It's such an elementary concept that we use it in just about every type of instructional process, so it makes sense that it would work here, too.

    2. Try multiple ideation techniques with your team and see which work best

      How do you determine "best" during brainstorming? I can see a scenario in which participants are more active or engaged because of the type of brainstorming activity (which would appear successful to the group), but it doesn't yield the end goal or solution. I can also envision a scenario that looks like it's not a good brainstorming session due to engagement or generation of useful ideas, that over time leads to a successful outcome.

    1. This is another technique that can help to save the day when nothing else seems to be working, and can re-ignite the energy levels of groups that are approaching creative burnout. The technique is simple: Ask the group to create a list of bad, terrible, stupid, illegal or gross ideas.

      This was a new concept to me--I haven't run across this as a strategy for brainstorming before. I have seen the adage that no idea is a bad idea, but the approach inherent in this is different. Purposely proposing what you consider a bad idea or suggestion to break a brainstorming block and renew energy and enthusiasm is not something I have tried before. I can see where it only exists to reset the mood and won’t in and of itself create content, but I can also see gems coming out of the "bad ideas."