## 3. Diverge

The diverging step is the step during which idea generation takes place. To make sure everybody has some time to think without already being affected by group think, it is good to start off with individual idea generation, and then bring those ideas in for the group idea generation step.

Post-it brainstorm
Write the brainstorm question at the top of the sheet (or whiteboard, wall or table).
First, give everybody the opportunity to think up as many ideas on their own as they can and have them write them down one idea per post-it. Then, rotate around the group and have everybody stick one of their ideas to the sheet or board and explain it. If a post-it triggers new ideas, simply have the participants write them down on post-its and post them up when it is their turn.

Nominal group technique
This technique is similar, but post-its (or cards) are collected by the facilitator who reads them one by one. This way, there it is not known who is the originator of any of the ideas, which may allow people to share their ideas more freely. It can be necessary to clarify the meaning of certain ideas, through a short group discussion.

Example brainstorm session (diverge) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VvdJzeO9yN8