Creative Brainstorming

4.6

(1,876 ratings)

Structured ideation session using techniques like SCAMPER, mind mapping, and crazy eights to generate innovative ideas.

Creative Brainstorming sessions use proven techniques to unlock innovative thinking and generate numerous ideas rapidly. Methods like SCAMPER (Substitute, Combine, Adapt, Modify, Put to other uses, Eliminate, Reverse), mind mapping, and rapid sketching help teams break free from conventional thinking patterns. This structured approach to creativity works well for product development, process improvement, marketing campaigns, and problem-solving workshops.

45-90 min4-20 peopleindoor

CorporateEducationalAdults

Creative ThinkingTeam Building

Objective

Generate numerous innovative ideas using structured creativity techniques.

Materials Needed

Whiteboard or digital collaboration tool
Post-it notes or virtual stickies
Markers
Brainstorming templates

How to Play

1

Define the Challenge

5 min

Clearly state the problem or opportunity. Frame as "How might we..." question to encourage open thinking.

2

Warm Up: Crazy Eights

10 min

Everyone folds paper into 8 sections. Sketch 8 different solutions in 8 minutes (1 minute each). Quantity over quality!

3

SCAMPER Technique

25 min

Go through each letter systematically. For each, generate 3-5 ideas: What could we Substitute? Combine? Adapt? Etc.

4

Mind Map Connections

15 min

Create visual mind map connecting related ideas. Look for patterns, combinations, and innovative connections.

5

Select and Develop

20 min

Vote on top 3-5 ideas. Spend time developing these concepts further with additional detail.

Pro Tips

facilitationImportant

Defer judgment during generation phase. All ideas welcome, no criticism allowed.

preparationImportant

Provide examples of each SCAMPER technique beforehand so participants understand.

Variations

Try these variations to adapt the game for different contexts and group sizes.

Silent Brainstorming

Everyone writes ideas silently first to avoid groupthink, then shares.

Role-Based Brainstorming

Participants brainstorm from different personas (customer, competitor, child, alien).

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