An Introduction to Creative Techniques

When we need to solve a creative problem, we counduct a brainstorming session: we select a technique, get the team together and produce ideas. To make the brainstorming efficient, we follow the rules described in the following guide.

Creative techniques are a set of tools and instructions that help in the search of innovative ideas. They make brainstorming go smoother, and preparation takes only from 5 to 10 minutes.

The approach can vary from task to task: we sometimes use just one technique; oftentimes we combine a few or turn the existing ones into something new.

To make it more convenient, we have formulated general rules for running brainstorming sessions, described each technique and developed framework templates on Miro. At Dodo, these tools are used by marketers, designers, copywriters and creators, but essentially, they are helpful for anyone who creates products or is looking for a fresh perspective when addressing existing problems.

The brainstorming rules described below apply to all techniques. The techniques and templates themselves have been published in other guides in the selection.

10 rules of brainstorming

Determine the number of participants
It is easier to prepare when the number of participants is known in advance. We try not to involve too many people in brainstorming, because the process will be difficult to manage and will take too long. Our templates are adapted for a meeting of 5-6 people – and this is the optimal number of participants.
Hold a pre-meeting
A few days before the brainstorming, we invite participants to an introductory meeting on the product or send everyone an introductory presentation. This gives the team a chance to think the task over briefly, gather additional information or generate first ideas.
Prepare the space
If the meeting is online, we use a pre-made framework on Miro. If the meeting is face-to-face, we choose a location and prepare stickers, markers, and paper.
Let the team be aware of format
Let participants know where the upcoming meeting will take place in advance; also how long it will last, what to bring and how to prepare. Before the online meeting, check that everyone has access to editing on Miro and on all other necessary services.
Do not confuse brainstorming with presentation
At the beginning of the meeting, spend no more than a couple of minutes immersing the team into the subject: remind them briefly of the purpose of the brainstorming and the rules, and then move on to the exercises. Give all the basic information in advance (see point 2).
Use a timer
Follow the timings strictly. We have written down how many minutes we allocate for each exercise in a brainstorm with 5-6 participants in the templates. Miro has a handy Timer tool for it.
Make sure to do a warm-up
A warm-up does take a little time, but it helps participants to focus on the task at hand, switch to creative mode, or understand the tools for brainstorming.
Write down all ideas
Jot down every idea that participants offer. Even ideas that arise during the final discussion should be put down.
Finalize the brainstorming with discussion
Ideas reproduce ideas, so we always include a discussion or idea generation phase in the brainstorming based on other people's ideas. It works well. Don't forget to take notes!
Accept all ideas
Do not criticize ideas during the brainstorming session. We spell this rule out at the beginning of the meeting. The task of the creative team is to generate as many options as possible and only after that select the most suitable ones.