Negative Brainstorming

Negative (or Reverse) brainstorming requires a significant level of effort analysing a final short-list (rather the initial mass) of existing ideas. (see Bullet-proofing and Potential Problem Analysis). Examining potential failures is relevant when an idea is very new, complex to implement or there is little margin for error. Negative brainstorming consists of a conventional brainstorming session (or any other suitable idea-generation method) that is applied to questions such as: ‘What could go wrong with this project?’

Often referred to as the ‘tear-down’ method, because of its negativity can be advantageous and seen in a positive light when training implementers to deal with hostile criticism. However, even this example needs to be followed up with a constructive debrief to ensure the implementer feels encouraged and secure.

Brainstorm, Displaying a comment such as ‘How not to solve the problem, i.e. how to really mess up implementing project X’ will generate much humour and unexpected ideas (which should be noted)

Identify a cluster i.e. comments said in different ways that mean the same thing ‘Staff only’; ‘don’t tell non-staff’, reverse the cluster to give a single positive comment e.g. ‘tell those involved’

Repeat step 2, ad lib as you go

[Source: www.mycoted.com]

CLASS	B
PHASE	Evaluation
DESCRIPTION	Negative (or Reverse) brainstorming requires a significant level of effort analysing a final short-list (rather the initial mass) of existing ideas. (see Bullet-proofing and Potential Problem Analysis). Examining potential failures is relevant when an idea is very new, complex to implement or there is little margin for error. Negative brainstorming consists of a conventional brainstorming session (or any other suitable idea-generation method) that is applied to questions such as: ‘What could go wrong with this project?’ Often referred to as the ‘tear-down’ method, because of its negativity can be advantageous and seen in a positive light when training implementers to deal with hostile criticism. However, even this example needs to be followed up with a constructive debrief to ensure the implementer feels encouraged and secure. Brainstorm, Displaying a comment such as ‘How not to solve the problem, i.e. how to really mess up implementing project X’ will generate much humour and unexpected ideas (which should be noted) Identify a cluster i.e. comments said in different ways that mean the same thing ‘Staff only’; ‘don’t tell non-staff’, reverse the cluster to give a single positive comment e.g. ‘tell those involved’ Repeat step 2, ad lib as you go [Source: www.mycoted.com]
CORRELATE TECHNIQUES	BRAINSTORMING BULLET-PROOFING POTENTIAL PROBLEM ANALYSIS
REFERENCES	J. G. Rawlinson, Creative Thinking and Brainstorming, 1981

NEGATIVE BRAINSTORMING