1. Brainstorming process

2. Brainstorming – the process of finding ideas While some good ideas come from sudden inspiration, most result from staff members working together. This process should be used in all aspects of the creation of the yearbook.  Determining a theme  Finding story ideas  Planning book and ad sales campaigns  Design decisions This process helps to ensure that everyone has a voice in important staff decisions.

3. Brainstorming – the process of finding ideas Make sure all staff members understand the rules. Clearly explain the topic and goal. Allow participants a few minutes to think; perhaps, write down their thoughts. All staff members take turns offering ideas. Ideas are listed so all can be seen. No ideas can be rejected or criticized. Even bad ideas can spark good suggestions. Once ideas slow down, accept suggestions at random.

4. Brainstorming – the process of finding ideas Discussion begins only after brainstorming is exhausted. Initially, review the list to weed out obviously bad ideas. Discuss the viability of remaining ideas – eliminating more suggestions. Rank ideas in order of preference. Discuss top ideas until one emerges.

5. Brainstorming – the process of finding ideas Avoiding common pitfalls is crucial for success. Make rules clear. All voices are to be heard. If some suggestions are belittled, not all staff members will participate. Warm up. Some students will not be comfortable sharing ideas. To encourage all to participate, start by brainstorming an unrelated topic that is less threatening – such as naming possible uses for a pizza box.

6. Brainstorming – the process of finding ideas Avoiding common pitfalls is crucial for success. Don’t stop early. Brainstorming sessions will come to a halt if discussion begins before all ideas are generated. Premature discussion will often hinder the creative process. Use often. Probably the biggest mistake a staff can make is not using brainstorming more often. Brainstorming can be used for more than finding a theme. Make it part of all planning – story ideas, problem solving, etc.