Break the rules technique

Sometimes we need to challenge our assumptions!

We very often make up our own rules that stop us doing something which could be a good solution.

Perhaps you have reoccurring problems that you feel you can’t solve and there are some self-imposed barriers that you have created.

This technique challenges everything we take for granted when we are looking at a problem, breaking the rules looks to innovative and real solutions.

To use this technique write down all the ‘rules’ that surround it.

Then take the contrary view and break all those rules.  Don’t make any judgements at the thinking stage!  As you work through the ideas you may find something workable.

Go Wild! – Wouldn’t it be good if...

Imagine your ideal scenario in solving your problem! This sets your thought process free.

Once you have defined your problem write as many sentences as you can that begin with...

“Wouldn’t it be good if...”

The more outrageous and out of the groove your sentences are the better. 

For example, if you want to increase the number of customers entering your business then “wouldn’t it be good if our customers paid to get into our store”.

Once you have a list, find ways of making at least 25% of your sentences possible, by asking ‘how could we possibly do that?’  The answer we can’t is not allowed!  Find a way no matter how bizarre it sounds.

These techniques are very useful to use within your teams to generate lots of ideas and encourage everyone to challenge have things are done and how they could be better.