Chapter 10Brainstorming with
Unrelated Stimuli
T
he activities in this chapter use unrelated problem stimuli to help generate ideas. For
some problems and some groups, brainstorming with unrelated stimuli may result in
better ideas. Unrelated stimuli can help create different perspectives, because they are not
similar to the problem. Therefore, there is more likelihood that unique ideas will result.
(All the “tickler” activities in Chapter 5 also rely on unrelated stimuli, so they also may
produce more novel solutions.)
Remember the old saying “You can’t see the forest for the trees”? The “trees” are
problem elements that encourage you to focus all your attention on the problem. In other
words, there may be parts of a problem that distract you from a more central focus. Such
use of related stimuli provides a narrow focus, limits your perspectives, and actually may
make it more difficult to generate creative ideas.
Although unrelated stimuli may help you generate better ideas, there is no guarantee.
Many other factors also are involved. Problem solving success is determined by the type
of problem, the degree to which it is understood and structured, and the personalities and
creative abilities of the group members. Nevertheless, the unrelated activities in this chap-
ter will increase your odds of getting unique ideas.NOTE: FOR ALL ACTIVITIES, REMIND PARTICIPANTS
TO DEFER JUDGMENT WHILE GENERATING IDEAS.295
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