Brainstorming is one of the most common tools for generating ideas. But let’s be honest—it often fails to live up to its promise.
In many brainstorming sessions, a few voices dominate, others stay quiet, and the best ideas never make it to the surface. That’s where brainwriting comes in.
Brainwriting is a quieter, more structured, and often more effective alternative that levels the playing field and unleashes broader creativity.
What Is Brainwriting?
Brainwriting flips the script on brainstorming. Instead of speaking ideas out loud, participants write them down—usually in silence—before sharing. This simple shift removes groupthink, pressure to perform, and the dominance of louder personalities.
It’s especially useful in:
- Cross-functional teams
- Diverse or mixed-hierarchy groups
- Remote or hybrid settings
- Problem-solving sessions where quality matters over speed
Key Benefits of Brainwriting
- Equal participation – Everyone contributes, not just the extroverts
- More ideas – Writing stimulates idea flow and reduces interruptions
- Less bias – Ideas are judged on merit, not who said them
- Fewer distractions – Silence helps people think more clearly
How to Run a Brainwriting Session
Here’s a simple structure to try:
1. Set the Problem Statement
Start with a clear and focused question or challenge. Example: “How can we improve onboarding for new clients?”
2. Distribute Templates
Give each participant a brainwriting sheet (physical or digital) with space for 3–6 ideas.
3. Silent Writing (5–10 minutes)
Ask everyone to quietly write down as many ideas as they can. No talking.
4. Pass or Post
Participants can either pass their sheet to another person (who adds more ideas), or post them on a wall or virtual board anonymously.
5. Group and Discuss
Review all ideas as a group. Use sticky notes or digital tools to cluster themes, vote on favorites, and discuss next steps.
Variations to Try
- 6-3-5 Method – 6 people write 3 ideas every 5 minutes, rotating sheets 6 times.
- Digital Brainwriting – Use tools like Miro, Jamboard, or shared docs for remote teams.
- Timed Rounds – Add time pressure to boost idea volume.
Tips for Success
- Use a facilitator to guide each phase.
- Remind participants there are no bad ideas in early stages.
- Combine with other tools like affinity mapping or impact/effort grids.
Summary: Let Everyone Think First
Brainwriting may not have the same buzz as brainstorming, but it often delivers better results. It’s inclusive, focused, and easy to implement.
Next time you’re planning an idea session, try switching from shouting to writing. You’ll likely get more ideas—and better ones too.