Brainstorming: when and how to use it correctly

Brainstorming is one of the most well-known and used techniques for generating ideas. Although it seems simple to apply, brainstorming is often used incorrectly, leading to poor results and frustrations in the team. To be effective, it must be applied at the right time and according to clear rules.

What is brainstorming?

Brainstorming is a method of group work that aims to generate as many ideas as possible in a relatively short time, without evaluating or criticizing them in the initial phase. The basic principle is that more ideas increase the chance of identifying valuable solutions, even if some seem unrealistic or unusual at first glance. Divergent thinking and temporary suspension of judgment are even encouraged to stimulate participants' creativity.

When is it recommended to use brainstorming?

Brainstorming is especially suitable in the following situations:

• when we have an open problem, without an obvious solution;
• At the beginning of a project, to explore options and directions.
• when we want improvements, innovations or new ideas;
• when we want to involve the team and capitalize on different perspectives.

The method can be used in topics such as:

• reduction of losses identified by OEE;
• elimination of recurring defects;
• decreasing setup times;
• improving safety and ergonomics;
• optimization of production or maintenance flows.

On the other hand, brainstorming is not effective when:

• the problem is strictly technical and has a standard solution;
• the decision must be taken urgently;
• the objective is not clearly defined;
• There is a culture in which ideas are quickly criticized or hierarchy inhibits free expression.

How to conduct a brainstorming correctly?

For good results, brainstorming should be properly structured and moderated.

1. Clear definition of purpose

The problem should be formulated simply and precisely so that all participants understand it in the same way. For example: "How to reduce setup time"

2. Clear rules from the beginning

Some essential rules:

• no idea is criticized in the generation phase;
• quantity is more important than quality (at first);
• ideas can build on each other;
• All participants also have the right and obligation to contribute.

3. Active Facilitation

A facilitator (leader or moderator) has the role of:

• encourage participation by all;
• to limit the dominance of the discussion by certain people;
• maintains focus on the topic;
• respect the allotted time.

4. Selecting ideas

The generation of ideas must be clearly separated from the analysis phase. Only after brainstorming is the selection, grouping and evaluation of ideas made using clear criteria.

Common mistakes in brainstorming

Among the most common mistakes are:

1. turning brainstorming into a debate or meeting
2. lack of preparation and a clear objective;
3. the participation of too many people, more than the facilitator can control;
4. ignoring ideas after the session, which demotivates the team in the long run.

Conclusion

Brainstorming is a valuable tool when used at the right time and in a safe, structured, and well-facilitated setting. It is not an end in itself, but a means to stimulate creativity, engagement and collaboration. Applied correctly, brainstorming can become an important engine for continuous improvement and innovation in any organization.