704 Hazard Analysis and Control

Brainstorming

You are probably familiar with this problem solving technique.

Brainstorming can be used by individuals or groups quite successfully to quickly develop a list of possible solutions to problems.

There are six basic and unalterable rules to the group process of brainstorming that set it apart from other problem-solving procedures. They are:

1. Define the issue. Make sure everyone is clear on the problem you are going to brainstorm.
2. Critical non-judgment. Defer judgment on any idea that is expressed. This even includes encouraging comments to others or qualifying phrases attached to your own suggestions.
3. Organized chaos. The session should be as freewheeling as possible, with each person voicing whatever ideas come to mind - - no holds barred. Ideas may be expressed in rapid, machine-gun, fashion. Don't limit the creativity.
4. Similar originality. Participants are encouraged to hitchhike or piggyback on the ideas of others. When one person's suggestion sparks an idea by another, it should be instantly expressed. Lots of "ah-ha's"...
5. Quantity, not quality. The more ideas the better. The goal of brainstorming is to get as many ideas as possible. Evaluation and elimination can be accomplished later.
6. Brief summary statements. Don't go into great detailed explanations of your idea. You want the recorder to be able to have time to write down all ideas as team members think of them.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.