Main Types and Classifications of Brainstorming: From Classical to Modern Methods

There exists a wide range of variations of classical brainstorming, all built upon its foundational principles, which can be freely adapted to different contexts and tasks.
Originally developed by Alex Osborn, the method represents a key technique of group creativity, designed to generate a large number of ideas in a criticism-free environment with the aim of discovering unconventional and innovative solutions.
The simplicity and flexibility of the method allow it to serve as the foundation for numerous adaptations of brainstorming, each of which relies on its core structure while preserving the original creative spirit.

Its strength as a source of diverse types and variants lies in its modular design, which makes it possible to modify, extend, or combine it with other techniques, thereby creating a broad spectrum of brainstorming forms. At the same time, the method’s flexible structure allows it to be adapted to any group size, problem type, or industry, making it a universal tool for generating creative ideas.

Contemporary adaptations often seek to overcome the limitations of the original model. For instance, brainwriting provides equal opportunities for introverted participants by shifting the process into written form, while problem-focused brainstorming shifts the emphasis away from immediate solution generation toward a deeper understanding of root causes and the reframing of new problem statements.
Thus, classical brainstorming is not merely one among many methods, but rather a generative matrix—a fundamental prototype from which a wide array of contemporary creativity and problem-solving techniques has emerged.

Selection and Adaptation of Brainstorming Techniques

The leader or facilitator plays a pivotal role in selecting and adapting brainstorming techniques to the specific task and composition of the group. To do this, they must evaluate a set of factors or criteria that determine the effectiveness of the method, identify the most appropriate technique, and adapt it to the particular characteristics of the team and the problem at hand.

Key Criteria for Selecting a Brainstorming Technique

1. Purpose of application. A clear definition of what is expected from the session: generating new ideas, identifying problem areas, producing breakthrough solutions, developing alternative options, enhancing group dynamics, or fostering non-standard thinking.
2. Domain of application. The field in which the method is employed (business, education, science, design, art, social projects, personal development), as well as the specific nature of the task.
3. Type of thinking. The dominant cognitive mode to be activated: divergent and associative thinking for idea generation; convergent and abstract thinking for analysis; lateral thinking for overcoming mental stereotypes.
4. Degree of structure. Depending on the task, this may require a free flow of ideas (Freewriting) or a strictly organized process with step-by-step rules (Morphological Analysis).
5. Problem characteristics. These include complexity (simple problems call for light methods, complex ones require more analytical approaches), novelty (new problems demand unconventional techniques, routine ones—proven methods), degree of uncertainty (ambiguous problems require flexible and creative approaches), vagueness of formulation, heterogeneity of elements, and dynamic nature.
6. Group characteristics. Team size, functional and cultural diversity, psychological climate, level of engagement, degree of preparation, as well as participants’ experience, status, and age composition.
7. Means of expression / Form of output. The format in which ideas are recorded and developed: verbal discussions, visual diagrams or sketches, physical prototypes or role-playing, as well as textual recordings and brainwriting techniques.
8. Conditions and tools. Organizational parameters, including the available environment (physical or virtual), resources (workspace, flipcharts, interactive boards, specialized software).
9. Degree of innovativeness. The level of originality and novelty at which the method is targeted: from incremental improvements and adaptations to radically new, breakthrough solutions.

A careful evaluation of these factors enables the facilitator to select the brainstorming technique that maximizes the team’s creative potential and enhances problem-solving effectiveness.
The choice of criteria—and in some cases their combination and configuration—depends directly on whether the aim is practical, research-oriented, or educational.
Adapting the method to the specific context and group needs ensures optimal outcomes while minimizing the risks of wasted time and resources.

Basis for classifying brainstorming techniques

One of the most effective ways to organise, structure, and clearly present the full diversity of brainstorming methods is to select a combination of criteria for their classification.
• key criteria – mode of idea generation, and medium of idea expression (verbal, written, or visual), which reflect the fundamental ways in which creative ideas are created, communicated and presented.
• additional criteria – effectiveness and breadth of applicability.

It should be noted that, like any other attempt to structure the full richness of creative methodologies, this classification is of a conditional nature and involves numerous overlaps. Certain methods may, to a greater or lesser extent, belong simultaneously to different groups and levels of the classification.

The three-level structure with subcategories makes the classification both clear and structurally rigorous, providing the necessary detail without excessive complexity.
It is comprehensive, transparent, logically consistent, and flexible enough to include all existing and new brainstorming techniques.
Every known method finds its place based on whether interaction is vocalised, written or spatially visualised.
The classification’s clarity stems from its hierarchical structure, which categorizes methods from the most abstract to the most concrete expression of ideas, with further subdivisions for detailing.
Verbal Methods. Verbal brainstorming techniques are based on oral interaction, which stimulates spontaneity, dynamic collaboration, and the exchange of ideas. This group of methods is organized according to a universal categorization criterion that divides them into two subcategories: divergent and convergent techniques.
Written Methods. Brainwriting relies on written forms of creative problem solving, allowing participants to generate and elaborate ideas either individually or in groups. Its subcategories—round-robin exchange, common pool, and individual—capture the full range of writing-based approaches.
Visual Methods. Techniques that employ presentation boards and visual representation emphasize the use of shared visual spaces and external means of idea fixation, which make it possible to organize and clearly display creative ideas.
This group is further divided into two subcategories: methods using cardboards and methods employing visual elements.

Classification of Brainstorming Methods

1. Verbal Brainstorming. Methods that primarily involve spoken interaction, group discussions, or verbal exchanges to generate ideas. These are typically dynamic, real-time, and rely on vocalized input.
1.1. Divergent, unstructured methods. These methods are based on free divergent thinking without strict frameworks and limitations.
1.2. Convergent and algorithmic methods. These methods organize brainstorming by imposing a structure and a sequential algorithm of actions on it.

2. Brainwriting: iterative process. Methods that emphasize written contributions, often in a silent or structured format, where participants write ideas individually or in a shared system before discussion or synthesis
2.1. Circular: Methods where ideas are written and passed sequentially among participants in a circular or iterative manner.
2.2. With a Common Pool: Methods where participants contribute written ideas to a shared collection (e.g., a central list or pool) for further development.
2.3. Individual Idea Generation: Ideas are generated privately without immediate group interaction.
3. Board-Based and Visual Brainstorming. Methods that rely on shared visual spaces such as flip charts, whiteboards, sticky notes, online boards and virtual workspaces. These techniques emphasize externalizing ideas through drawings, diagrams, clusters, or spatial arrangements.
3.1. With the Use of Card Board: Methods that involve physical or digital cards, boards, or similar tools to organize or display ideas.
3.2. Visual with Drawings: Methods that emphasize visual elements, such as sketches, diagrams, or drawings, as a core part of the idea-generation process.
Methods using Card Board overlap with brainwriting techniques in that they involve writing ideas on cards, but their creative essence lies in the visual and spatial organization of ideas.
Techniques within each category were ranked by their combined score for popularity, breadth of application, and effectiveness. Consequently, the highest-ranked methods are the most versatile, user-friendly, and broadly applicable.

All Types of Brainstorming

1. Verbal Brainstorming

These methods rely on verbal interaction, such as group discussions (Buzz session), role-playing (Role storming), or structured verbal processes (Gordon-Little Variation). They emphasize spoken creativity, often in a group setting.
The best criterion for grouping these methods is the underlying basic cognitive process and type of thinking: divergent and convergent.

1.1. Unstructured & Free-Form Techniques
These methods prioritize pure, divergent thinking with minimal constraints. The goal is quantity and wild creativity, often building on group energy.
1. Classical Brainstorming: is characterized by generating a maximum number of ideas without criticism or evaluation in the first stage, aiming to stimulate creativity and find non-obvious solutions.
2. Role storming technique: Participants adopt different roles or personas to think and suggest ideas from new perspectives.
3. The Buzz session: The core activity is breaking a large group into small, fast-paced subgroups that generate and share ideas simultaneously.
4. Wildest Idea Creativity Technique: Encourages deliberately extreme, absurd, or impossible ideas to spark innovative thinking.
4. Imaginary brainstorming: Invites participants to imagine unreal or hypothetical scenarios or future states to expand creative possibilities.

1.1. Highly Structured & Algorithmic Techniques
These methods impose a specific, sequential structure on the brainstorming process. They feel more like a defined process or algorithm to follow.
These methods impose a specific, sequential structure on the brainstorming process, creating a defined, repeatable algorithm
1. Reverse (Negative) Brainstorming: Frames the problem inversely (How to cause it? How to make it worse?) to reveal unconventional solutions. Generates ideas by asking how to cause or worsen the problem, then reverses them into solutions.
2. Question Brainstorming: Focuses on formulating questions about the problem, reframes the task from “finding answers” to “finding the right questions,” fundamentally changing the approach to the problem.
3. Combined Brainstorming: A hybrid approach that intentionally integrates multiple brainstorming approaches to balance creativity, structure, and evaluation.
4. Gordon-Little Variation (Progressive Revelation): A controlled process where the facilitator slowly reveals the full problem to prevent premature closure and bias. Starts from a vague central concept, gradually clarifying it through associative idea generation.
5. Rawlinson Brainstorming: Emphasises systematic idea by disrupting familiar patterns by deliberately misreading, fragmenting, or rearranging problem statements.
6. Kaleidoscope Brainstorming Technique: Systematically reframes the problem by changing its core parameters (e.g., cost, time, size). Rearranges them into new patterns, like shifting pieces of a kaleidoscope.
7. Stop-and-Go Brainstorming: Uses a strict time-based structure, alternating between brainstorming and evaluation phases.
8. Brainstorming Deluxe: Implies a highly prepared, multi-technique agenda with formal rules and documentation. Enhances traditional brainstorming with additional tools such as ranking, clustering, and refinement.
9. The Military Brainstorming Version: A rapid, disciplined, and mission-oriented process with clear, strict rules.

2. Brainwriting

2.1. Circular or iterative process
These methods involve writing ideas and passing them sequentially among participants in a circular or iterative process. They involve participants writing ideas and passing them to others in a structured, circular manner. For example, 6-3-5 Brainwriting involves six participants writing three ideas each in five-minute rounds, passing sheets sequentially.
1. Group Brainwriting Technique: Participants simultaneously and silently write down ideas and then share or exchange them for further development in a group.
2. 6-3-5 Brainwriting: Six participants write three ideas each in five-minute rounds, passing sheets iteratively to stimulate idea building.
3. Round-Robin and Roundtable Brainstorming: Participants generate ideas sequentially, taking structured turns in a circular or table format.
4. Group Passing Technique: Ideas are written on sheets and passed around the group, with each participant adding or modifying content.
5. The Pin Card Technique: Ideas are written on cards and pinned to a board for collective review, clustering, and refinement.
6. Trigger Method: Initial ideas serve as triggers, prompting participants to expand, transform, or combine them into new solutions.
7. Air Cliché: Uses common clichés or stereotypes as starting points to provoke fresh reinterpretations and novel ideas.

2.2. With a Common Pool
These methods involve contributors writing ideas that are collected in a shared pool for group review or development. They involve writing ideas that are aggregated into a common pool, such as a shared list or display. For example, Brainwriting pool (BP) collects all ideas centrally, and Nominal group technique involves writing ideas before group discussion.
1. Brainwriting Pool (BP): Ideas are written and deposited into a central pool, later reviewed, sorted, and expanded by the group.
2. Nominal Group Technique: Combines silent individual idea generation with structured group discussion and ranking. Participants silently record ideas, which are later discussed, ranked, and prioritized collectively.
3. Snowballing Technique: Ideas grow cumulatively as participants progressively expand or combine the contributions of others.
4. Blue Slips Technique: Participants write one idea per slip of paper, which are collected, grouped, and discussed systematically.
5. Constrained Brainwriting: Idea generation occurs under defined restrictions – strict rules, limits, or templates, fostering focused creativity.
6. Individual Brainwriting: Participants independently record ideas, which are later integrated into the group process.
7. Individual Brainstorming: a method of generating ideas independently, , characterized by free-flowing thought without criticism, allowing for deep focus and avoiding group dynamics.

3. Board-Based and Visual Brainstorming

3. 1. With the Use of Card Board
These methods use physical or digital cards, boards, or similar tools to organize or display ideas. For example, The Pin card technique uses cards pinned to a board, and Card story boards involve arranging ideas on a storyboard. The Gallery method often uses a board or wall to display written ideas.

1. Method KJ – Diagram of Affinity: Participants write ideas on cards and cluster them into affinity groups, revealing thematic relationships.
2. Online Brainstorming: A digital method for remote teams to generate and develop ideas collaboratively using online platforms. This method uses digital whiteboards and cards (e.g., Miro, MURAL, Trello, Jamboard).
3. The Gallery Method: Ideas are displayed on boards or walls for collective viewing, comparison, and silent evaluation.
4. Brainwriting Game: Uses playful rules and game forms of brainstorming to stimulate the process of idea generation.
5. Rotating Roles: Participants rotate responsibilities or perspectives, sometimes using written exchanges, to stimulate varied insights.
6. The Cluster Brainstorming Technique: Ideas are grouped visually into clusters around central themes, highlighting associations and conceptual structures.
7. Card Story Boards: Ideas are arranged sequentially on boards in a storyboard format to visualize processes or narratives.

3.2. Visual with Drawings and Images
These methods emphasize visual elements, such as sketches, diagrams, or drawings, as a core part of the process.
They rely on visual representations, such as drawing diagrams (e.g., Team Idea mapping), sketching ideas (e.g., Brain sketching), or creating visual clusters (e.g., Classic cluster brainstorming). Right-braining emphasizes visual and intuitive creativity.
1. Visual Brainstorming: Participants rely on sketches and visual elements rather than words to explore and communicate ideas.
2. Team Idea Mapping: Uses collective diagrams and mind maps to structure, connect, and expand group-generated ideas.
3. Brainsketching: Participants draw rough sketches of ideas, which are shared and iteratively developed by others.
4. Brain drawing: Ideas are expressed through drawings, often evolving collaboratively as sheets circulate among participants.
5. Battelle-Buildmappen-Brainwriting: Uses folders with pre-drawn images or sketches to stimulate and organize idea development.
6. Right-braining: Engages intuitive, visual, and holistic thinking, with drawings, metaphors, and nonverbal creativity tools, emphasising imagery from the “right-brain” mode.

This classification aids facilitators and users in choosing the right method for a specific situation and provides a clear framework for academic study, ensuring all brainstorming techniques are systematically included.

Markov, S.L. (2010) Mozkovyi schturm i jogo riznovydy jak efektyvni instrumenty vyrichennj upravlinskih problem [Brainstorming and its variants as effective tools for solving management problems]  In S.D. Maksimenko & L.M. Karamushka (Eds.), Actualni problemy psichologii. Vol 1, 27, (pp. 297-215). Kyiv: Publishing House “A.C.K”.