Use this planner before your session. A well-planned brainstorming session generates 3× more useful ideas than an unplanned one.
The Question We Are Solving
Write a clear, open-ended "How might we..." question that focuses creativity.
Participants (aim for 5–8 people, mix of roles)
Ground Rules to Review at the Start
No criticism — all ideas are valid during generation
Quantity first — more ideas = better chance of breakthrough
Build on ideas — "Yes, and..." is encouraged
Wild ideas welcome — crazy ideas spark practical ones
One conversation — no side discussions
Write everything — no ideas are lost
Session Agenda
TimeActivityDuration
________Welcome, introductions, ground rules5 min
________Problem context + warm-up exercise5–10 min
________Silent brainstorm (individual ideas first)10 min
________Share ideas round-robin, record all on board15 min
________Build / combine ideas in open discussion10 min
________Dot voting to select top ideas5 min
________Wrap-up, next steps, assign owners5 min
Supplies Checklist
- Sticky notes (multiple colors)
- Markers / pens for all participants
- Whiteboard or flip chart
- Dot stickers (for voting — 3 per person)
- Timer
- Idea capture sheets (for silent round)
- Camera to photograph the whiteboard
- Other: ___________________________
Warm-Up Exercise (choose one)
A 2-minute warm-up gets people thinking creatively before the main session.
☐ 30 uses game: Name 30 uses for a paperclip in 2 minutes
☐ Word association: Say the first word that comes to mind for each prompt
☐ Worst idea: Brainstorm the worst possible solutions (reverse thinking)
☐ Other: