The Military Brainstorming Version

The Military Brainstorming Technique

The Military Brainstorming Technique is a structured approach to idea generation and problem-solving that emphasizes rapid, collaborative thinking to generate actionable solutions under pressure. It is often used for ill-structured problems and in crisis situations where quick decisions are essential.

History of the Method

The history of the Military Brainstorming method can be traced back to the early 20th century when it was first used by military personnel to generate creative solutions to complex problems and strategize in high-pressure situations.
This method is part of the “Military Appreciation Process” (Gary Klein, Karl E Weick, 2000; Rupert Hoskin,2009), which was developed by the both UK, Australian and Canadian Army and  “Army design methodology” (ADM) (US Army), for operational planning and further improved by the application of the human factor in operational contexts. Army design methodology (ADM) incorporates elements of brainstorming to generate innovative solutions.
The Military Brainstorming Technique gained recognition in business and innovation during the late 20th and early 21st century due to the fact that modern environments are characterized by volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA)  and require rapid adaptation to changing circumstances. Nowadays this method has been adapted for use in business, management, education and personal contexts.

A Short Description of the Method

The Military Brainstorming Technique involves gathering a team to address a specific problem and challenge.  It incorporates specific features such as hierarchical participation, time constraints, and a focus on mission-critical objectives.
This method emphasizes anticipating multiple scenarios, assessing risks, and developing versatile solutions. It is characterized by structured phases such as reconnaissance (problem understanding), tactical planning (idea generation), and execution strategies (solution implementation).
Participants are encouraged to think quickly and collaboratively, often under time constraints that mimic real-world pressures. Its structured nature makes it suitable for crisis management or strategic planning sessions where time is of the essence.

Basic Functions

Generates actionable creative solutions, adapts to changing circumstances, and achieves mission objectives.
Encourages a sense of urgency and accountability among participants, often leading to more focused discussions.
Focuses on risk assessment and contingency planning.
Enhances adaptability in unpredictable situations.

Essence of the Method

At its core, the Military Brainstorming Technique combines analytical rigor with creative exploration. By mimicking military strategy sessions, it emphasizes urgency, teamwork, and a focus on actionable outcomes.

Methodological and Theoretical Foundations

The technique is grounded in theories of group dynamics and collaborative problem-solving, principles of operational art, risk management,
scenario planning and visual modelling, cognitive diversity theory, systems and lateral thinking,  critical and creative thinking, decision-making theory, collaboration and dialogue.

Rules

 Common rules within the Military Brainstorming: Quantity over quality: No criticism: Wild ideas are welcome: Build on each other’s ideas.
Specific rules: The method may include respecting the chain of command, and time constraints,  to maintain focus and urgency and guidelines for maintaining security and confidentiality.

Procedure and Organization

Duration: Sessions typically last between 1 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity of the problem and operational or strategic planning objectives
• Space: A quiet, comfortable environment conducive to open dialogue is essential.
• Materials: Whiteboards, sticky notes, maps and markers are useful for capturing ideas.
• Number of Participants: Ideally, 6 to 12 participants from diverse backgrounds to ensure a variety of perspectives.

Recommendations

For Leaders and Facilitators:
• Clearly define the problem and objectives at the start.
• Foster an inclusive atmosphere where all voices are heard.
• Keep the session on track and manage time effectively.
For Participants:
• Come prepared with knowledge about the problem.
• Be open-minded and willing to explore unconventional ideas.
• Engage actively and collaboratively with others.

Main Steps and Stages

1. Problem Definition.
• Clearly articulating and defining the problem
• Framing ill-structured problems.
2. Fact Examination.
• Reviewing and analyzing the relevant data, individual considerations and environmental frame.
• Identifies obstacles impeding progress toward the desired end state, frame and restate the problem by brainstorming obstacles
• Reframing Problems by Questioning Assumptions as a risk-mitigating measure.
3. Idea Generation. 
• Allow participants to generate and share ideas spontaneously without judgment.
• Apply specific methods to spark diverse ideas such as Mind Mapping,  Role Playing, etc. Use phrases like: “What if…?” or “Imagine that…”, What happens if we reverse it?”
• Encourage participants to combine or expand upon existing ideas.
• Record all suggestions and Cluster-related ideas to identify patterns or themes.
4. Evaluation, Critique and Selection. 
• Assess the feasibility and potential impact of each idea using criteria such as cost, time, feasibility, impact and resources.
• Review the strengths, weaknesses and risks of the ideas identify the best options and select the most promising solutions.
5. Implementation Planning. 
• The Leader summarizes the results of the brainstorming session and develops an actionable plan to execute the selected solutions.
• Delegates tasks to team members for further development or implementation.

Examples of Using in Practice and Real-Life

1. Military Operations.
 During the planning of a complex military operation, commanders use this technique to generate and evaluate strategies for deployment, logistics, and contingencies, ensuring all potential scenarios are considered.
2. Crisis Management Session.
Public relations. During a public relations crisis, a public relations team applies the method to anticipate and respond to potential crises, ensuring timely and effective messaging.
Business: A company facing market disruptions uses this technique to create adaptive strategies for supply chain management, preparing for scenarios like regulatory changes or supplier shortages.
3. Personal Life: An individual planning a career change uses the technique to explore scenarios such as economic downturns, relocation opportunities, and skill development needs.

Variants or Options

1. Directed creativity (By Gary Klein)

 This technique is based on a model of directed creativity, which includes criteria for evaluating the best ideas and focuses on the accurate appreciation of all aspects of the problem, before making a decision.
1. Present the dilemma.
2. Individual consideration.
3. Present ideas.
4. Critique the ideas.
5. Integrate the ideas.
6. Repeat as necessary.
7. Converge on solution.

2. The Military Brainstorming Technique as Scenario Analysis.

1. Reconnaissance.
– Gather comprehensive information about the problem.
– Identify key constraints and objectives.
– Identify key variables and uncertainties.
2. Scenario Analysis.
– Brainstorm potential scenarios, including worst-case, best-case, and probable situations.
– Analyze factors influencing each scenario.
– Test scenarios through hypothetical or real-time simulations.
– Create detailed, plausible scenarios.
3. Tactical Planning.
– Generate ideas for addressing the problem under each scenario.
– Develop primary and contingency plans.
4. War Gaming.
– Simulate scenarios to test the feasibility and robustness of solutions.
– Identify potential weaknesses and refine strategies.
5. Execution Strategy.
– Consolidate insights into a cohesive action plan.
– Assign roles and establish timelines for implementation.

3. Hybrid Approaches: Combining this technique with other creative techniques and brainstorming methods.

Using a variety of techniques to encourage participants to generate ideas, such as mind mapping, brainwriting, and rapid ideation.
 Brainwriting (Silent Brainstorming): Participants write down ideas individually before sharing, reducing the influence of dominant voices.
Rapid Fire Brainstorming: A faster-paced version where ideas are generated in quick succession, ideal for time-sensitive situations.
Strategic Military Brainstorming: Centers on long-term goals and systemic impacts. The facilitator can also adjust the length of the brainstorming session and the number of participants depending on the specific needs of the situation.

Advantages of the technique

1. Provides a clear and disciplined framework for idea generation and evaluation.
2. Focuses on Implementation and Emphasizes actionable solutions rather than just theoretical ideas.
3. Reduces risk through robust contingency planning.
4. Generates a wide array of creative solutions quickly.
5. Adaptable to various contexts, from military to business to personal life.

Limitations and Disadvantages

1. Time constraints may pressure participants, potentially stifling creativity.
2. Requires skilled leadership and facilitation to ensure effectiveness and maintain focus.