Idea Generation with Brainwriting: The 6-3-5 Technique
Have you ever heard the saying, "Time is the most valuable thing a man can spend"? Makes you think, right? Especially when your team needs to generate many ideas within a tight timeframe. Traditional brainstorming sessions can often take a while, and let's face it, we're usually itching for instant results.
That's where the 6-3-5 brainwriting technique swoops in to save the day. Picture this: a structured brainstorming method that's less about talking and more about putting pen to paper.
Your team members will feel valued and engaged when their ideas are considered
The Technique
There are multiple variations of this technique, but here are the basic rules:
Prepare: Gather your team and writing materials, such as sticky notes or index cards, and make sure that everyone understands the objective of the session and the time limit.
Formulate the Challenge: Clearly define the problem or topic that your team will brainstorm about. This could be anything from generating marketing campaign ideas to solving a business challenge.
The Process:
6 Participants: Each participant starts with a blank sheet of paper and writes down three ideas related to the challenge within five minutes.
3 Rounds: Participants pass their sheets to the person on their right after the initial five minutes. They then review the ideas already written and use them as inspiration to generate three more ideas within the next five minutes. This process repeats for a total of three rounds.
5 Minutes per Round: The time limit is essential to prevent overthinking (we are looking for volume, not quality).
Combine and Build: By the end of the three rounds, each participant will have contributed to and built upon the ideas of others.
Review and Select: After the brainwriting session, gather all the generated ideas and discuss them as a team. Use dot or silent voting to identify the most promising concepts.
Empowering new skills
The magic of the 6-3-5 brainwriting technique? It's efficient, inclusive, and totally pressure-free. There is no need to worry about who's talking over whom or if your idea is "good enough." Just let the creativity flow and watch the ideas pile up.
The possibilities are endless so next time you're up against the clock, remember the power of brainwriting.
Want to learn more about the 6-3-5 technique? Drop us a note, and let's explore how we can help solve your challenge.
Be happy, be kind.
D.