What do you do if some ideas are being overlooked during brainstorming sessions?

Una de las tácticas que se puede usar a la hora de identificar un sesgo en las ideas, es regresar al equipo al objetivo de la sesión. Muchas veces los equipos se enfocan en las ideas basadas en hechos que ya conocen y eso afecta la novedad de otras ideas. También, otro ejercicio es dejar a los tomadores de decisión de últimos en las discusiones, muchas veces las personas sienten presión por la presencial de un superior o jefe y prefieren apoyar las opiniones de esas personas.

One of the tactics that can be used when identifying a bias in ideas is to return the team to the objective of the session. Many times teams focus on ideas based on facts they already know and that affects the novelty of other ideas. Also, another exercise is to leave the decision makers last in the discussions; many times people feel pressure due to the presence of a superior or boss and prefer to support the opinions of those people.

Encourage equal participation: Ensure everyone gets a chance to speak and share their ideas without interruption.

I encourage inclusivity by actively soliciting input from all participants, ensuring everyone's voice is heard and valued. Additionally, we can employ techniques like brainstorming or anonymous idea submission to stimulate diverse contributions. If it is your idea the one that's being overlooked and you know it's something that's worth it and valuable, I encourage to look for a way to communicate this idea, with your Manager or connecting with the right departments, build a strong business case, investigate, connect with the right people and seek for support.

Otro ejercicio poderoso es usar post its para que cada persona pegue en la pared y exponga sus ideas, las personas van a escuchar sin cuestionar las ideas, luego cada miembro del equipo va a recibir 5 votos para votar sin emitir opinión por las ideas que más le gustaron. Esto hará que la gente escoja libremente las ideas que prefieren. Another powerful exercise is to use post its so that each person can stick it on the wall and present their ideas, people will listen without questioning the ideas, then each member of the team will receive 5 votes to vote without expressing an opinion for the ideas that most they liked it. This will make people freely choose the ideas they prefer.

Dos herramientas muy poderosas para este ejercicio son el boceto y el storyboard. Ambas ayudarán a los equipos a tener una perspectiva visual de las ideas. El boceto debe enfocarse en la parte estética de la solución, y el storyboard debe enfocarse en la interacción del usuario con la posible solución. Two very powerful tools for this exercise are the sketch and the storyboard. Both will help teams get a visual perspective on ideas. The sketch should focus on the aesthetic part of the solution, and the storyboard should focus on the user's interaction with the possible solution.

Fostering openness is essential because it cultivates an environment where diverse perspectives are valued and encouraged. When ideas are overlooked during brainstorming sessions, it not only stifles creativity but also inhibits the potential for innovation. Embracing openness ensures that every voice is heard, fostering a culture where individuals feel empowered to contribute their unique insights without fear of judgment. By prioritizing openness, teams can tap into a wealth of ideas, leading to more comprehensive problem-solving and ultimately driving success.

Create a safe environment: Foster an atmosphere where all ideas are welcomed and valued, regardless of how unconventional they may seem.

Rotate facilitators: Switch facilitators periodically to bring fresh perspectives and ensure everyone's ideas are given fair consideration.