Brainstorm or Consult?

Sometimes brainstorming produces the best source of creative solutions. But sometimes, the fastest, cheapest path is to ask an expert.

How do you come up with creative solutions to problems?

When you want to engage your constituents and find an approach that will gain consensus, brainstorming can be a great way to go. Gather the right people, cover all the processes involved, and give yourself plenty of time -- PLENTY of time.

Often organizations schedule a brainstorming session and give it far too little time. The ideas pop out, the ideas slow down, and the event is over -- the problem stands there laughing at the routine little list of common solution.

Proper brainstorming -- followed by careful narrowing and selection -- takes time and resources. When you are prepared to make that investment, you will likely be pleased with the results.

Sometimes, though the solution can be achieved faster, cheaper, and even better by consulting with an expert. Finding someone who knows exactly how to make the changes needed to solve your problem is often the best way to go.

The error many people make is always leaning on a consultant, or always assembling a brainstorming session.

How do YOU decide which path to take?

-- Douglas Brent Smith

Learn more in the workshop: Solving Problems

Solving Problems | Improving Performance | Achieving Your Goals

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