Before the early 1900s, the term "brainstorm" was defined as momentary mental insanity. In the 1920s the meaning reversed to define a type of epiphany or mental ingenuity, but it wasn't until the 1940s that Alex Osborn coined the word brainstorm to describe his process of problem solving that defines the word today.

Uses of Brainstorming

Whether you realize it or not, you have probably had some experience with brainstorming. Perhaps you have used it in a group project or to write an essay. Brainstorming has been used for business plans, marketing campaigns, in creating or improving products and services, and much more.

Brainstorming in a Group

The most important thing to remember while brainstorming in a group is that no idea can be too crazy. In fact, outlandish ideas should be encouraged. For a group brainstorm to be successful, the participants should also refrain from criticizing others, as this inhibits the creative thought process.

Brainstorming Solo

Brainstorming alone can be useful for personal problems or in other situations when getting a group together is impossible for the task. Don't criticize yourself or disregard wild ideas.

Common Techniques for Brainstorming

Outlining is a common starting point for brainstorming. An essay might require you to develop an introduction, body and conclusion, but an outline for a business plan might include location, inventory and target customers. Mind mapping is another common technique and it isn't as rigid as outlining. Write your problem, or the task at hand, in the center of a page and draw branches out to as many sub-topics as you need. Branch out from any idea to develop it further.

Creative Techniques for Brainstorming

Try to think about the problem from a different perspective. How would you approach the issue if you were the opposite sex, a different age, or of another nationality? Use a random word generator if you're stuck. Even if the word seems far off from your topic, thinking of ways to relate it to your problem may open the door for new ideas.

Source:

"America in So Many Words;" David K. Barnhart & Allan Metcalf; 1997

Brainstorming.co.uk: What is Brainstorming

The Personal Excellence Blog: 25 Brainstorming Techniques