Identify and explain the eight steps used in brainstorming. Which step is the most important and ...

(1) Select a problem that needs to be solved. (2) Discuss the history, causes, and background of the problem so the group understands what options are needed. (3) Tell the group to develop a creative mind-set (set aside judgments and criticisms when people offer ideas, stress quantity of ideas, avoid criticizing ideas, try and come up with one or more wild ideas, and piggyback off someone else's ideas). (4) Start brainstorming. Give the group a time limit. (5) To reduce the possibility of evaluation of ideas, consider using a period of silent brainstorming before sharing ideas. (6) Record ideas on the board or flipchart. (7) Keep reminding the group not to evaluate ideas of others when they are first expressed. (8) Evaluate the ideas after all ideas have been presented. The most important step is to set aside judgments until the brainstorming session is completed. Evaluations, even praise, can inhibit creativity because people begin to self-censor their ideas for fear of being criticized.