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10 Brainstorming & Mind Mapping Tips from SmartDraw
These brainstorming tips and SmartDraw's mind mapping software can help you find that big idea and put it to work for you. Try SmartDraw free!
Quantity not Quality.
When brainstorming on your own or with a team of people, the goal is to express as
many ideas as possible very quickly. Do not self-censor or hesitate before offering an idea.
A free exchange is what can help bring your most brilliant ideas to the surface.
Pen to Paper.
Assign a person to write down all of the ideas on a sheet of paper that can be seen by
all of the participants. This list will serve as the master and will be culled to include the most relevant
suggestions.
Click here to see SmartDraw's mindmapping templates.
No Critics.
All ideas should be welcome and no one (leader or participant) should issue any type
of verbal criticism toward an idea presented, no matter how off base it may seem at the time.
This will help keep the environment supportive and help to encourage everyone to take part in the
process.
Time's Up.
For fertile idea generation, set a time limit. Having a ticking clock or a
timer helps get the creative juices flowing.
Click here to see SmartDraw's mindmapping templates.
Go the Extra Mile.
Even after you think you've exhausted all of the possibilities, reexamine the
ideas presented and push yourself to add a few more to the list.
Change of Scenery.
Sometimes the best brainstorming and idea generation can happen in new surroundings.
So, leave the all-too-familiar conference room behind and meet somewhere new, maybe a colleague's home,
a park or a quiet cafe.
Small Groups.
Brainstorming works best in groups of up to 15 people. If a group gets too large, some
attendees may not feel as comfortable participating.
Brainstorm Alone?
Sure, it's possible. Create a mind map starting with your central theme and branch
off that, setting new ideas in different circles that connect to the central theme. Maybe one of your new
ideas inspires you, so make it a theme and connect new thoughts to it. This form of mind mapping is commonly
used by writers trying to spark their imagination. The main rules are the same: no self-censorship, set a
time limit, and keep writing - the pen must be touching the page the entire time.
Project Maps.
Mind maps are great to use in project management. One such use would be to brainstorm
a list of all the questions you have regarding the scope of your project to make sure you are prepared with
the answers.
Have Fun!
Brainstorming can be fun, and is a great way to boost morale among employees and help them
to feel part of the decision making process.
