Think Tank Methods

 Key points about specific methods: 

Group Size

            There is a balance between too many members and too few.  An ideal range is from five to 12 members (Monet, 2017).  It is believed that if the group is in this range, members will be more likely to participate.  This, of course, assumes that each and every member will have something notable that they feel is worth saying.  This reminds me of class size.  If I was in a smaller class, that did not guarantee more participation from me.  If I felt that I had something worthwhile to share, then I would participate.

If more members are needed and the group size is larger than this ideal range, it is suggested that the larger group is split into smaller groups for the majority of the discussion.  Later, the smaller groups will combine into the larger group in order to share ideas.

Environment

            This is similar to the idea of a “safe place.”  This phrase is spoken often intense, emotional television scenes when one character wants the other to confide in them and this phrase lets the latter know they can trust the former.  A think tank’s environment should be one of safety, comfort, and feel casual (Monet, 2017).  

It is believed that if a think tank is viewed as a casual conversation with peers, members will be more likely to open up.  A confidentiality agreement can be signed beforehand to further cement the idea of a “safe place.”  These measures will allow participants to not be timid about sharing their ideas.  The room should include refreshments, not have to block furniture such as tables, and members should be informed of a non-formal dress code.  Imagine the set up when you visit a friend’s house.  I imagine the more comfortable and inviting a think tank is, the more likely members will want to return.

Follow Up

            A good facilitator will ensure that ideas are kept track of during a think tank.  Someone should take meeting minutes and suggestions as they occur (Monet, 2017).  In a good think tank, these moments of brilliance can come quickly.  It is the facilitator’s responsibility to ensure that the quick pace think tanks can have do not overwhelm a small idea.  She should bring it back around to further discuss an idea with much potential.  These ideas may come from those who are new to voicing their suggestions and once they are brought to the group in a discussion, that idea can be expanded into a workable strategy.  This can sometimes occur when an idea is mentioned, and that idea does not seem like it will have much impact.  The truth is, you never know which idea will start the flood of possibilities, so it is important to listen and explore each one.

 

References

Monet, M. (2017, September 26). The Best Think Tank Methods. Retrieved from BizFluent: https://bizfluent.com/info-8018836-think-tank-methods.html