Participation is key when generating great ideas. The nominal group technique provides a structure for everyone to contribute to a brainstorming session.
Let’s face it: sometimes people are shy when sharing ideas. (That or a few people simply dominate a group thinking session.) The nominal group technique provides a brainstorming method that encourages input from everyone to discover a range of solutions.
Simply identify a moderator, grab some writing tools and use this simple approach to begin:
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Identify the subject of your brainstorming session. Write it on a Post-it® Big Pad and hang it on the wall for all participants to see.
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Have each participant write down as many ideas relating to the focus as possible within 5 minutes. One Post-it® Note per idea.
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After 5 minutes have passed, have each participant share one idea aloud. The moderator will record it on a Post-it® Easel Pad for everyone to see. During this step, it’s important to follow these additional guidelines:
a.Discussing ideas at this stage is not allowed. Simply record the idea and move on to the next person.
b.Shared ideas don’t have to come from that participant’s written notes — in fact, a participant may be inspired by something shared prior. -
Continue around the group until each participant has shared his/her favorite idea.
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Have the group discuss the shared ideas to clarify any questions as far as meaning, logic, etc.
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Now it’s time to vote! Have the group identify the top ranked ideas and continue another round of brainstorming if the situation (and time) warrants.
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Find the products that bring this method to life at post-it.com/collaborate
