How to Run an Ideas Jam

I recently ran an Ideas Jam for the Innovation Unit at the British Quality Foundation (BQF). It consisted of an intensive idea generation session among a group who had not previously met. The participants came from various companies and public sector organisations. Each person brought a challenge from their business - e.g. How can we communicate our new strategy to thousands of people? or How can we significantly improve innovation? The event ran for a half a day and worked like this:

We started with an initial ice-breaker breaker exercise which was fun and got people introduced, relaxed and engaged. We then had 45 minutes of 'speed dating.' Each person met another person for 3 minutes and acted as a consultant for their challenge. The consultant asked questions and made suggestions (which could not be rejected or criticised). Then the roles were reversed. After the six minute date people moved on to their next date.

Next we divided into groups of six. Each group chose one challenge and then used the 'nominal' brainstorming method to quickly generate 60 ideas. We then applied criteria to select the best; we wanted ideas that were Novel, Attractive and Feasible. The selected suggestion was then presented back.

We formed new groups of six and used 'Reverse the problem' to generate ideas for another challenge. Finally we used Pass the Parcel to come up with really radical ideas for a further challenge.

Each delegate then chose the best idea(s) for their challenge and then worked on a brief follow-up plan including identifying the benefits and the next steps.

The feedback showed that the participants went away with great ideas and some powerful new tools to improve idea generation and implementation in their businesses.

Paul Sloane facilitates meetings and brainstorms.