What is the purpose of brainstorming in problem-solving?

The purpose of brainstorming in problem-solving is to develop multiple options. This creative thinking process encourages individuals or groups to generate a wide variety of ideas and solutions without judgment or premature evaluation. The essence of brainstorming lies in the emphasis on quantity: the more ideas generated, the better the chances of discovering innovative and effective solutions.

During this phase, participants are encouraged to think freely and express their thoughts openly, which can lead to unexpected insights and inventive approaches to the problem at hand. This approach allows for a diverse range of options to be considered, which can later be analyzed, refined, and evaluated in subsequent steps of the problem-solving process. It fosters collaboration and can help build a sense of ownership and commitment to the solutions developed as participants see their contributions valued.