Reverse Brainstorming
Focus on how to cause the problem, then reverse those solutions.
Explanation
Instead of asking 'How do we solve this problem?', reverse brainstorming asks 'How could we cause this problem or make it worse?' This counterintuitive approach often reveals hidden assumptions and generates unexpected solutions. It's particularly effective when traditional brainstorming feels stuck or when you need to identify risks and failure points.
Real-World Example
How to increase customer satisfaction? Reverse: How to make customers angry? Ignore their emails, make checkout complicated, ship wrong products, no refunds. Now reverse each: Fast response times, one-click checkout, quality control, generous return policy. Often reveals non-obvious solutions like proactive communication.
How to Apply
State the opposite problem: 'How could we guarantee failure?' or 'How could we make this worse?' Brainstorm these negative solutions enthusiastically. Then systematically reverse each negative idea into a positive solution. This often reveals solutions that wouldn't emerge from direct positive brainstorming. Great for risk identification too.