- There's a pervasive thought
in corporate brainstorming circles,
that more people in an ideation session
equates to more ideas.
It makes sense logically, but it's rarely the case.
As a matter of fact, the opposite often happens.
Still, we see giant brainstorming groups
where 10 to 20 people are pulled
into a massive conference room
and asked to solve a singular problem.
The group dynamic is multiplied when the numbers increase.
People can simply hide because their voice isn't needed.
Why speak up in a room that size?
There's a greater chance for idea judgment
and a better chance for personal judgment.
So what benefit does someone have
to risking that type of embarrassment?
Simply put, there's a tipping point for the number
of stormers that should be in a brainstorm session.
Well, many debate the most effective number of people
on a brainstorming session.
My experience is that five to seven is the optimal number.
This ensures that everyone has a voice
and that every voice is needed.
A wide variety of perspectives is still present
while duplication of those perspectives is minimized.
In a group that size, it's easier to make sure
everyone is comfortable sharing their opinion
free from critique, as well as being easier
to communicate corporately and individually,
something you'll find we'll touch on in the other rules.
Well, there will be times when you have a fewer
or more participants striving to find five to seven stormers
should be your goal in each brainstorming session.