collecting ideas inclusively: brainstorming vs brainwriting

“Dora, could you share one small thing that can make people feel more included on a team?”

This is a question I’m asked a lot. In the complex world of DEI, we crave tangible, easy-to-implement steps.

Here’s one: choose brainwriting instead of brainstorming when collecting contributions and ideas.

While brainstorming is a well-known method for generating ideas through open discussion and is generally perceived as encouraging creativity and free thinking, it’s not as inclusive as it could be.

Consider brainwriting instead: where participants independently write down their ideas and share them anonymously. This promotes more equal participation and reduces groupthink.

• To make brainwriting even more inclusive:
  
  Share the topic in advance (helpful for non-native speakers and those who prefer more time to think about ideas and solutions)

• Ensure that all participants understand the process and expectations by providing clear, written instructions.

• Give participants the option to contribute their ideas over a longer period, rather than in a single session.

What other idea- or perspective-collecting methods do you know of and use that have proven to be inclusive?