While group brainstorming is often more effective at generating ideas than normal group problem solving, several studies have shown that individual brainstorming produces more – and often better – ideas than group brainstorming.

Individual brainstorming can produce better ideas because you're less likely to run into counter-productive behaviors.

However, the best brainstorming takes advantage of both individual and group work.

• Find comfortable setting
• Minimize distractions
• Use tools you're comfortable with (e.g., mind maps)
• Clearly define the problem
• Develop list of related questions
• Record your first idea
• Ask yourself, "If this idea couldn't be made to work, what would be the next best idea?"

• Collect a diverse group with varied backgrounds, areas of expertise, and experience levels
• Set up comfortable environment with all the tools, resources, and refreshments you may need
• Present and define the problem
• Give people time to come up with ideas individually (see previous tips for individual brainstorming), then share with the group (round-robin will give each person the best opportunity to contribute)
• Guide the discussion to build on each idea, generating spinoff ideas
• Take breaks as needed, and allow individuals to break away as they need