The trick with ideas is to aim for quantity NOT quality! In order to get the best possible solution to your problem you need to generate as many potential ideas as possible. This will allow you to mix and match ideas to help meet the criteria you set when specifying the problem.

At Key Elements we can help you generate ideas and help you to avoid some of the pitfalls that can be caused by all of the learning we have taken on board as adults. To see an example of trapped thinking check out "Falling into traps."

When generating ideas it is advisable to use several sessions and utilise different techniques such as brainstorming, mind-mapping, bench-marking, word association etc. In some instances it may be advantageous to hold meetings away from the office, perhaps even in a childlike environment, this will help creativity.

With potential answers gathered we need to take decisions ...