438 A.2 speaKinG in sMall GroUps
a large problem into smaller parts. When analyzing a problem, a group should
consider the following questions:
• What is the history of the problem?
• How extensive is the problem?
• What are the causes, effects, and symptoms of the problem?
• Can the problem be subdivided for further definition and analysis?
• What methods do we already have for solving the problem, and what are
their limitations?
• What obstacles might keep us from reaching a solution?
To analyze the problem of the high cost of attending college, your discus-
sion group will have to research the history of the problem and existing methods
of solving it. (See Chapter 8 for research advice.)
Included in the process of analyzing the problem is identifying criteria.
Criteria are standards for identifying an acceptable solution. They help you to
recognize a good solution when you discover one; criteria also help the group
to stay focused on its goal. Typical criteria for an acceptable solution specify
that the solution should be implemented on schedule, should be agreed to by all
group members, should be achieved within a given budget, and should remove
the obstacles causing the problem.- Generate Possible Solutions
When your group has identified, defined, and analyzed the problem, you will
be ready to generate possible solutions using group brainstorming. Guidelines
for effective group brainstorming are similar to those presented in Chapter 7 for
brainstorming speech topics.
• Set aside judgment and criticism. Criticism and faultfinding stifle creativity.
If group members find it difficult to withhold judgment, have individual
members write suggestions on paper first and then share the ideas with the
group or use an electronic brainstorming app that allows participants to
share ideas anonymously.
• Think of as many possible solutions to the problem as you can. All ideas are ac-
ceptable at this stage, even wild and crazy ones. Piggyback off one another’s
ideas. All members must come up with at least one idea.
• Have a member of the group record all the ideas that are mentioned. Use a flipchart
or chalkboard for in-person brainstorming, or an app or collaboration tool
for electronic brainstorming, so that all group members can see and respond
to all the ideas.
• After a set time has elapsed, evaluate the ideas, using criteria the group has es-
tablished. Approach the solutions positively. Do not be quick to dismiss an
idea, but do voice any concerns or questions you might have. The group can
brainstorm again later if it needs more creative ideas.
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