Reverse brainstorming
A different approach to brainstorming...
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Reverse brainstorming combines brainstorming and reversal techniques in cases we want to extend the use of brainstorming to generate more creative ideas. We use this technique when a brainstorming session runs dry and it is difficult to identify solutions to the problem directly. Reverse brain-storming follows the basic rules of brainstorming and is a good technique for creative problem solving. We can evaluate this technique success by the participation and having successfully discovered essential elements of the problem.
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To use this technique, we have to “reverse" questions. For example, a reversed question for the traffic jam problem is: “How could we cause or increase the traffic?”
How to use it...
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- Identify the problem.
- Reverse the problem by asking:How could I possibly cause the problem or make it worse?".
- Brainstorm the “reversed problem” to generate reverse solution ideas.
- Reverse these into solution ideas for the original problem.
- Evaluate these solution ideas.
The key characteristics of this technique are the following:
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Quick |
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X |
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Long |
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Logical |
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X |
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Psychological |
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Individual |
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X |
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Group |