Use an idea map to identify ideas related to a central question.
Watch this video to learn more:
On an idea map, the central question is in the center. Affinities, which are
categories, branch from the central question and ideas branch from the
affinities.
Example of an idea map
This idea map shows how a hospital can improve patient satisfaction.
Answers the question:
What ideas affect a central
question?
When to Use
Purpose
Pre-project
Brainstorm potential projects and project areas.
Throughout the project
Assist in structured group analysis; can be used to set aside
nonsignificant inputs.
Guidelines
Add additional affinities as
needed.
You can add an idea to more
than one affinity.
Add comments to affinities,
ideas, and sub-ideas to preserve the thoughts of the group discussion.
The team composition is
critical. Include all who have relevant process knowledge.
Avoid having the moderator
make most of the suggestions.
How-to
Identify a central question
to investigate (for example, product fallout on the laminator or dropped calls
in the call center).
Based on the question to be
investigated, assemble a multifunctional team for the brainstorming session.
Enter the central question.
Generate and record several
affinities to segment the idea generation (for example, maintenance issues,
training issues, and raw material issues).
Generate and record ideas
and sub-ideas supporting each affinity.
Optionally prioritize the
affinities, ideas, and sub-ideas.