Permalink of this method: https://www.universalforesight.com/uf-methods-bank/11216
| Nature of the method: | Qualitative Methods |
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Brainstorming is a creative and interactive method used in face-to-face and online group working sessions to generate new ideas around a specific area of interest. Aiming at removing inhibitions and breaking out of narrow and routine discussions, it allows people to think more freely and move into new areas of thought, and to propose new solutions to problems.
The use of this technique was pioneered by Jungk and Müllert (1987) and was mainly applied in what they called “Futures Workshops”. Brainstorming is usually conducted in groups that are undertaking open-ended discussions, but may also involve carefully prepared questionnaires and online approaches. The first step is to share and exchange views from a selected group of people. These views are gathered and made available for inspection as they arise, crucially without being criticised or discussed in depth (other than being used to trigger further ideas). Subsequently, all ideas are discussed and clustered into categories (in line with, for example, a framework like the STEEPV).