Is brainstorming effective? Some say yes, and some say no. In my own experience, I’ve seen it be effective in some instances, while being a huge FAIL other times. I know that for me, it usually doesn’t work well in large groups, especially if it’s just people talking. Often just a few people dominate the conversation, while others may not feel that they have a voice – especially introverts who are still thinking about the issue while the talkers have moved on.
I’ve seen brainstorming work well in smaller groups. Some of the best ideas that I have seen are not one individual’s idea, but a culmination of different ideas from a couple of people that work synergistically together.
Sometimes, as introverts, the best ideas we have are when we are by ourselves, in the quiet of our own minds.
Here’s an interesting article on the history and effectiveness of group brainstorming: The Shocking Truth About Brainstorming and Its Effects on Creativity.
How does brainstorming work for you?
David Hall, M.Ed. is a speaker, author, and host of the Quiet and Strong Podcast, where he interviews thought leaders, creatives, and professionals who help introverts thrive. With over 25 years in higher education, David has led workshops, trainings, and presentations on productivity, personality, and introversion. His mission is to help introverts honor their needs, understand their strengths, and succeed on their own terms. He is the author of Minding Your Time: Time Management, Productivity, and Success, Especially for Introverts and a passionate advocate for creating work environments where introverts can do their best work.
