The Mercury Symbol Essay -- Sex Gender Crossdresser Transsexual Essays

The Mercury Symbol My mom’s previous beau Rick, presently known as Andrea, turned into a lady longer than 10 years back. Andrea is a transgender individual whom the Mercury image speaks to. For transgender individuals, the Mercury image represents their own internal endeavoring to turn into the sexual orientation they believe they were intended to be, uniformity, and pride. Cheerfully, Andrea and my mother have remained companions since she turned into a lady. For some individuals who cross the sex line, acknowledgment doesn't generally come so without any problem. Transgender is characterized as showing up, wishing to be considered as, or having experienced medical procedure to turn into a part the other gender. There are numerous terms for or related with transgender individuals, which individuals may likewise connection to the Mercury image, for example, transvestite, transsexual, crossdresser, intersexed (Wellesley College). The image is intended to communicate the parity of female and manly characteristics inside a person. Some transgender individuals are open about their sentiments while others, because of a paranoid fear of cultural dismissal, conceal their torment for quite a long time and once in a while until the end of time. The Mercury image goes back to old Greek folklore. Hermes (Mercury) and Aphrodite (Venus) had a kid that had both male and female sexual organs. They named the kid Hermaphroditus, which is the place the term bisexual initially originated from. The Mercury image is comprised of three sections: the bow moon, the cross, and the ring. The bow moon speaks to manliness, while the cross speaks to the female and the ring represents the individual encompassed by the battle with sex. (forPLU) In today’s society, it is difficult to be a straightforwardly transgendered individual and wear this image on your sleeve. The vast majority dread what is extraordinary... ... quality they appear by changing their sexual orientation and lifestyle. Reference index â€Å"I wonder what that means.† Wellesley College’s Queer Resource Handbook. 2000. Wellesley College. 28 Sept. 2004 < http://www.wellesley.edu/Activities/landing page/wlbtf/qrhandbook/definitions.html > â€Å"Normal.† Movie Tome. 2003. Film Tome. 29 Sept. 2004 < http://www.movietome.com/movietome/servlet/MovieMain/movieid-77789/Normal/> Stone, Sandy. â€Å"Transgender.† 1999. Sandy Stone. 29 Sept. 2004 < http://sandystone.com/trans.html > â€Å"Symbols of the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Movements.† Lambda Community Services. 2001. Lambda. 27 Sept. 2004 < http://www.lambda.org/symbols.htm > â€Å"Symbolic signatures.† 2000. forPLU.com. 27 Sept. 2004 < http://www.forplu.com/network/life&style/images/symbols_meanings.htm >

Research on Online Dating and Relationship Essay Example For Students

Research on Online Dating and Relationship Essay IntroductionBased on an exploration of Online Dating Relationships, Smith and Duggan expressed that the methods of discovering accomplices have been changed with the occasions. Previously, individuals utilized matchmaking, masterminded relationships and printed individual advertisements. With the quick innovation progression, there are elective techniques internet dating locales and advanced cell dating applications. To contrast and the individuals who date generally, individuals who date online are dynamic to pick their fantasy man or lady by perusing the others profiles (9). They additionally brought up that there are diverse experience between web based dating and conventional dating. Clients of web based dating can channel the accomplices by perusing the profiles from heaps of decisions. They have to orchestrate an opportunity to meet each other so as to have eye to eye correspondence (9).This paper will give proof and utilization of web based dating, and show the consequences for mental, wellbeing and social aspects.Page 2Evidence of online datingBy Joes Ho Pui LamFrom a cross-national overview, Hogan, Li and Dutton report that web based dating is pervasive in all nations these days. Utilizing the Internet ordinary is basic for individuals to have social exercises, regardless of they are from which nations. Loads of online sources give a stage to them to have web based dating (9). With the fast headway of Web advancements, web based dating begins ascending from 1997(10). Nonetheless, Hogan, Li and Dutton use â€Å"cohort† impact to show that web based dating isn't just for the most part for the adolescents who are happy to embrace to innovation, yet in addition to the mid thirties (10-11). Likewise, the senior populace is all the more ready to date on the web (11). What's more, various nations have fluctuated web based dating rate in view of the paces of Internet co. . individuals around, for example, bistro or a café close to a bustling road. Be sheltered, cautious and alert!Page 9ConclusionFrom a report of Dating Safety and Victimization in Traditional and Online Relationship, Koeppel, Smith and Bouffard presumed that with the utilization of Internet enables expanding web based dating and they to utilize it to widen their groups of friends and discover their accomplice. Individuals are all the more ready to acknowledge internet dating however their disposition towards web based dating is as yet negative on account of the negative effects (6). In directing this task, we discover that albeit internet dating is more advantageous to widen their social gatherings than the conventional strategies, the safeness is still under a worry and it will have progressively negative results in the general public. The clients ought to be progressively cautious on utilizing web based dating to have wellbeing safety measures and secure their own protection.

Obstetrics and Nurse free essay sample

At 0600 Jennie is brought to the Labor and Delivery triage territory by her sister. The customer whines of a beating migraine throughout the previous 12 hours unrelieved by acetaminophen (Tylenol), swollen hands and face for 2 days, and epigastric agony depicted as awful indigestion. Her sister tells the medical caretaker, I felt like that when I had toxemia during my pregnancy. Affirmation appraisal by the medical attendant uncovers: todays weight 182 pounds, T 99.1â ° F, P 76, R 22, BP 138/88, 4+ pitting edema, and 3+ protein in the pee. Pulse is ordinary, and lung sounds are clear. Profound ligament reflexes (DTRs) are 3+ biceps and triceps and 4+ patellar with 1 beat of lower leg clonus. The medical caretaker applies the outer fetal screen, which shows a gauge fetal pulse of 130, missing fluctuation, positive for increasing velocities, no decelerations, and no compressions. The medical caretaker additionally plays out a vaginal assessment and finds that the cervix is 1 cm enlarged and half destroyed, with the fetal head at a - 2 station. We will compose a custom exposition test on Obstetrics and Nurse or then again any comparative point explicitly for you Don't WasteYour Time Recruit WRITER Just 13.90/page 1. In exploring Jennies history, the medical caretaker is right in reasoning that Jennie is in danger of building up a hypertensive issue in view of her age (15). Which different factor(s) add to Jennies danger of creating preeclampsia? (Select all that apply.) A) Molar pregnancy and history of preeclampsia in past pregnancy. B) Familial history. C) History of beating migraine, low financial status. D) Preexisting clinical or hereditary condition, similar to Factor V Leiden. E) Nulliparity 2. To precisely evaluate this customers condition, what data from the pre-birth record is generally significant for the medical caretaker to acquire? A) Pattern and number of pre-birth visits. B) Prenatal circulatory strain readings. C) Prepregnancy weight. D) Jennies Rh factor. Pathophysiology of Preeclampsia There is no complete reason for preeclampsia, yet the pathophysiology isâ distinct. The principle pathogenic factor is poor perfusion because of arteriolar vasospasm. Capacity in organs, for example, the placenta, liver, cerebrum, and kidneys can be discouraged as much as 40 to 60%. As liquid moves out of the intravascular compartment, a diminishing in plasma volume and resulting increment in hematocrit is seen. The edema of preeclampsia is summed up. For all intents and purposes all organ frameworks are influenced by this malady, and the mother and hatchling endure expanding hazard as the illness advances. Preeclampsia creates following 20 weeks growth in a formerly normotensive lady. Raised circulatory strain is oftentimes the main indication of preeclampsia. The customer additionally creates proteinuria. While not, at this point thought about a demonstrative estimation of preeclampsia, summed up edema of the face, hands, and midsection that isn't receptive to 12 hours of bedrest is regularly present. Preeclampsia advances along a continuum from mellow to serious preeclampsia, HELLP disorder, or eclampsia. A customer may present to the work unit anyplace along that continuum. 3. What is the pathophysiology answerable for Jennies protest of a beating cerebral pain and the raised DTRs? A) Cerebral edema. B) Increased perfusion to the mind. C) Severe uneasiness. D) Retinal arteriolar fits. Jennies sister is worried about the growing (edema) in her sisters face and hands since it is by all accounts exacerbating quickly. She inquires as to whether the medicinal services supplier will recommend a portion of those water pills (diuretics) to help dispose of the overabundance liquid. 4. Which reaction by the medical caretaker is right? A) That is a generally excellent thought. I will transfer it to the social insurance supplier when I call. B) Im sorry, however it isn't the familys spot to make proposals about clinical treatment. C) Let me disclose to you about the impact of diuretics on pregnancy. D) Have you by any possibility given your sister water pills that have a place with another person? Admission to the Labor and Delivery Unit At 0630 the medical caretaker calls to answer to the medicinal services supplier, who recommends the accompanying: confess to work and conveyance, bedrest with restroom benefits (BRP), IV D5LR at 125 ml/hr, oxytocin (Pitocin) 2 mu/min, CBC with platelets, thickening examinations, liver chemicals, science board, 24-hour pee assortment for protein and uric corrosive, ice chips just by mouth, nonstress test, hourly crucial signs, and DTRs. 5. After the medical caretaker sets up IV situation, she gathers a sack of D5LR for the oxytocin (Pitocin), which is accessible in 20 units in 1000 cc D5LR. The request from the human services supplier is oxytocin (Pitocin) 2 mu/min to enlarge work. Ascertain the accompanying dribble rate for the oxytocin (Pitocin). (Enter the numerical worth as it were. In the case of adjusting is required, round to the entire number.) 6. While the attendant is anticipating the lab results, which nursing mediation has the most noteworthy need? A) Teach Jennie the method of reasoning for bedrest. B) Monitor Jennie for indications of lack of hydration. C) Educate the customer about dietary limitations. D) Observe Jennie for CNS changes. 7. Which procedure should the attendant use while assessing Jennies circulatory strain while she is on bedrest? A) Have Jennie lay prostrate and take the pulse on the left arm. B) Have Jennie lie in a sidelong position and take the circulatory strain on the needy arm. C) Have the customer sit in a seat at the bedside, and take the pulse with her left arm at midriff level. D) Have Jennie stand quickly and take the circulatory strain on the correct arm. The attendant plays out a nonstress test to assess fetal prosperity. 8. When playing out a nonstress test (NST), the medical attendant will survey for which parameters? An) Accelerations of the fetal pulse in light of fetal development. B) Late decelerations of the fetal pulse because of fetal development. C) Accelerations of the fetal pulse in light of uterine compressions. D) Late decelerations of the fetal pulse in light of uterine withdrawals. HELLP Syndrome At 0800, physical appraisal and labs uncover the accompanying: the customer is as yet whining of a cerebral pain however the epigastric agony has slightlyâ decreased. While the customer is resting in a left parallel position, the fundamental signs are BP 146/94, P 75, R 18. Hyperreflexia proceeds with one beat of clonus. The standard fetal pulse is 140 with moderate inconstancy and no decelerations. Since finishing of a receptive nonstress test, no further increasing velocities have happened. Lab results include: hemoglobin 13.1 g/dl, hematocrit 40.5 g/dl, platelets 120,000 mm3, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) somewhat raised, alanine aminotransferase (ALT) typical for pregnancy, 0 burr cells on slide, thickening examinations typical for pregnancy. The human services supplier determined Jennie to have preeclampsia as opposed to HELLP disorder, a variation of extreme preeclampsia. 9. In the event that Jennie had HELLP condition, which lab results would the medical caretaker anticipate that her should display? An) Elevated hemoglobin and hematocrit (HH) without burr cells, raised liver proteins, platelet check 150,000 mm3. B) Decreased hemoglobin and hematocrit (HH) with burr cells, raised liver compounds, platelet tally

Becoming an Effective Leader Essay

My activity title is Training Co-ordinator for an association called Lifeskills Centers, I survey in the accompanying regions; business organization, client assistance, the executives, conveying level 2 and 3 and furthermore any supporting key aptitudes required. I am answerable for my caseload of students; their advancement, learning and accomplishment of the capability. I should provide food each program to suit the requirements of the individual student, I do this by setting each new starter off on introductory evaluations with the goal that I can perceive what level they are right now at which will assist me with choosing which course is the most appropriate and which approach will be the most useful for the student. I am additionally answerable for making solid expert associations with the students new businesses and keeping up associations with existing bosses this is for two reasons so they would prescribe us to different managers so we increase a decent notoriety thus that they will need to utilize Lifeskills as a preparation supplier for the entirety of their staff and won't utilize an alternate association as it is a serious market. I likewise publicize opening for our bosses who have had great encounters in the past with students and might want to enroll another one. I concur with the business the entirety of the subtleties to go on to the advert and meeting the entirety of the up-and-comers and time for testing the reasonable ones for seven days before sending them to the business themselves to meeting and afterward settle on a ultimate choice. Inside my job I utilize various diverse initiative styles in various circumstances and with various individuals so as to advance and accomplish what should be accomplished for instance; I utilize the administration style imperious when I arrive at the finish of the program and I mention to my students what I need and what should be done and how it should be done, this is the point at which the students are shy of time in the event that they are leaving the association and don’t have a lot of time to finish and it works the best when they need to accomplish and are profoundly energetic. I have utilized the administration style popularity based when I had a gathering of students in a single specific position where I was thinking that its difficult to gain them ground as they wouldn’t complete any work except if I was thereâ with them and they had no inspiration towards the capability. I examined with the students my interests and asked how they figured we could push ahead and they recommended coordinated gatherings, I educated the students this would be too tedious and that I could bear to have a morning or evening out of the month for me to come in to the association and bolster them and rouse them to finish the information questions, specialized authentication and key aptitudes side of the capability. The students affirmed this was a successful technique and I educated them that I will watch them two times every month except they don't need to finish any composed assignments for me between perception as it will be done on the one morning/evening for every month. I utilized this authority style so they believed they were incorporated and to assist me with increasing more regard from them and I don't imagine that it appeared to be a shortcoming from myself I think it demonstrated that I was straightforward and understood that there was something not right and afterward talked about and actualized an answer. In conclusion the administration style I utilize not all the time but rather I do in any case utilize is delegative which is the place I let the students settle on their own choices on how they can advance through their capability. I for the most part utilize this style when a student has advanced from a level 2 capability with myself on to a level 3 so they know the manner in which the program works and we have an agreeable relationship I likewise permit some level 3 students to reference their own work in to their records. Utilization of enthusiastic insight in molding execution I utilize the two parts of enthusiastic knowledge when managing students and partners consistently as I should initially get myself and my objectives, goals, reactions and conduct and get others and their sentiments to have the option to deal with my students and their advancement. I sympathize with students and utilize the comprehension of their feelings to propel them and move them to finish their work. I am mindful of my own sentiments and feelings and control these to ensure that I don't carry on in a manner that is unsuitable towards students or partners, I might not need to express anything to convey how I am feeling as it tends to be depicted in my non-verbal communication and outward appearances which is likewise something that I need to control. In light of Goleman’s hypothesis to be a successful pioneer I should be awareâ of my own sentiments and feelings and deal with these to ensure that my feelings don't appear in my conduct in the event that they are unsatisfactory. I should persuade myself which I do by meeting evaluation and survey targets and defining myself my own objectives to accomplish. I should likewise oversee different people groups feelings I do this by building a relationship with my students and becoming more acquainted with what they like and what bothers them so I can perceive this and prevent it from turning into an issue where conceivable, it additionally causes the students to feel esteemed and that I care about the manner in which they feel. It is additionally expressed in Maslows Hieracy of requirements that to work to your full capacity and progress in your activity and develop as an individual you should have coming up next; Be in a solid state, have a sense of security, feel like you have a place some place and have some type of public activity (companions, family, connections) and have confidence before you can develop by and by. I should ensure that I show all students that I care about every one of them as an individual and that there progress and development implies a great deal to me. I think a territory that I for one need to chip away at is the point at which I stress and frenzy over things for instance we were fake reviewed and I felt on edge about it, I should ensure that this inclination doesn't go over to students or businesses and that the remainder of my work doesn’t experience the ill effects of it. I additionally attempt to comprehend and deal with the businesses I manage enthusiastic insight as I need to fabricate a relationship with them and trust so I ensure that I sympathize with them and make an effort not to do anything conceivable which may irritate them for instance on the off chance that I can see that a business is occupied as opposed to refreshing them after the meeting with their student I will inquire as to whether they might want an update by means of email as should be obvious they are truly occupied and afterward they can choose how they might want the criticism. Setting bearing and picking up duty I impart and set course for my students by visiting them fortnightly, watching them work, giving them what every perception will cover or connection in with, giving them criticism on their presentation and setting them focuses for the following arrangement. I offer continuous help by means of email and via phone to students when I am grinding away however not at a meeting with them and survey their advancement and set targets officially at their multi week audits which provides them clear guidance and inspiration to meet the objectives theyâ agree by the following survey. I offer help and instructional exercises to students for the entire of the specialized authentication and useful aptitudes they complete and furthermore offer preparing on the phone, organizing strategies and decisiveness abilities as I have seen this is a zone for improvement that businesses request and the students as well. I likewise spur and addition duty from students and attempt to convince new managers to take on new students by utilizing myself as a good example model, as I started my vocation by finishing an organization level 2 apprenticeship and have finished enough capabilities and stirred my way up to turning into a Training Co-ordinator. I convey and set bearing and inspire bosses by staying up with the latest with the learner’s progress and precisely what I have been doing with the student after each visit where conceivable and remembering them for the capability by requesting observer proclamations and furthermore requesting that they take part in the learner’s audits. With my partners I impart bearing in normalization gatherings where we share best practice on the most proficient method to cover and survey certain units that we may discover troublesome or what we have discovered that works well indeed. I attempt to propel my partners by being dedicated and really eager about my students accomplishing and my activity.

Brainstorming - Techniques for Idea Generation

Brainstorming - Techniques for Idea Generation © Shutterstock.com | Rawpixel.comBrainstorming is the first ever technique of idea generation. This article looks at 1) what is brainstorming?, 2) history: Alex Osborn gives birth to brainstorming, 3) steps for effective brainstorming, and 4) 12 fantastic brainstorming techniques.WHAT IS BRAINSTORMINGBrainstorming is an individual or group idea generation technique to find a solution for a particular problem by generating multiple solutions. In fact, importance is attached to the quantity of ideas and not quality at the generation stage. Even strange ideas are welcome in a brainstorming session. Frequently, far-fetched ideas become practical ones with slight modification. Ideas may be blended to create a single great idea as implied by the motto “1+1=3.” Structured brainstorming that proceeds in the right manner utilizes the human brain’s abilities of free association and lateral thinking.HISTORY: ALEX OSBORN GIVES BIRTH TO BRAINSTORMINGIn the 1940s, an advertising executive b y the name of Alex Osborn came up with the technique of brainstorming following his frustration at the inability of employees to come up with innovative ideas for advertising campaigns. The technique was the result of his attempts to fix rules that would provide people with the freedom of action and mind to trigger and reveal fresh ideas. The original name he gave to this ideation process he invented was “think up” before it later came to be called brainstorming. According to Osborn, brainstorming is a conference technique through the practice of which a group endeavors to come up with a solution for a particular problem by collecting all the ideas spontaneously contributed by the participating members.Osborn’s argument was that two principles: 1) defer judgment and 2) reach for quantity helped in achieving ideative efficacy. These principles were followed by Osborn’s four rules of brainstorming which may be outlined as follows:Put the emphasis on quantity of ideas (as the m axim goes, “quantity breeds quality”);Hold back criticism or judgment;Be open to bizarre/strange ideas;Blend ideas to enhance them (1+1=3).These rules were established with the objective of lessening social inhibitions if any among the group members, boosting overall group creativity and of course, fueling idea generation.Osborn was of the opinion that brainstorming should only address one specific question because he believed that sessions that tried to tackle many questions were unproductive.STEPS FOR EFFECTIVE BRAINSTORMINGA brainstorming session may be carried out in any of many different ways. Given below is a 7-step process.Step #1: Decide on a suitable place and facilitatorThe brainstorming has to be conducted in a comfortable environment so that you can get the best output from the participants. A well-lit conference room would be good. It should be possible for the facilitator to take notes â€" make use of flip charts, a computer or white board (whichever would suit you r group). If you expect the session to last a long time, you might want to arrange snacks and refreshments. Ensure that there is adequate paper and stationery.Appoint one person as a team manager/leader and another as an idea recorder. It would be difficult for one person alone to handle both responsibilities.Step #2: Decide on the participantsDevote some time to deciding who should be called to participate in the session. A simple rule to apply here would be to choose the people who would have the answers to the question you intend to put forth. This may seem obvious but very frequently, the selection of participants is based more on their position in the organization’s corporate ladder than on their specific knowledge. You can also consider including people with different thinking styles or associated with a diversity of disciplines.Step #3: Specify the problem for which possible solutions are to be found and the goalIt is important that the problem for which brainstorming is to be done, be stated clearly. A good way to ensure this would be to write the problem lucidly at the head of the board. Everyone should comprehend the objective of the session. With the topic in full view all through the session, there is a greater likelihood of the session staying focused. Also remember that the participants should be given the necessary background information before the brainstorming. The best time is before the session though sometimes it may have to be shared while the session is in progress. Here’s an example: Suppose the problem is how to make sure employees always register their time of arrival at and exit from the office. For that you can provide background information such as:Why the irregular clocking in and out is a problem;Which are the groups forgetting to do so;How the business is losing because of this and so on.Last of all, it is also important to delineate the solutions space. Come up with rules, boundaries and criteria for the ideas that are to be generated. This will ensure that time doesn’t go to waste checking out ideas that don’t fit the bill.Step #4: Set a time limitState the time limit at the very beginning. 5 or 10 minutes may do but sometimes more time may be required. Whatever you decide, state it up front.Step #5: Diverge prior to convergingThis is a suggestion. Allow everyone to pen down their ideas prior to the start of the session so that there is no time lost in talking about just one or a few ideas. This would help you to bring in a little argument into the discussion whenever it is possible.Step #6: Let the brainstorming beginStart the brainstorming. You can expect some bad ideas but members of the team/group should be instructed in advance not to criticize/comment negatively till after the session is over, however dumb or strange the idea sounds. The person in charge of note taking should note down all the ideas as they come, bereft of any criticism or comment. Breaks are permissible in case the brainsto rming session gets too long.Step #7: Choose the best ideas (based on pre-determined criteria)Select the best ideas after short-listing the ones that meet the pre-determined criteria. One way to make things easier is to score each of the ideas a number from 0 to 5 depending on the degree to which it satisfies each of the pre-determined criterion. Once that’s done, add up the scores. The one with the highest score can be taken as the best idea. However, if this best idea is not practical, in spite of the scores, you can look for the second best one.12 FANTASTIC BRAINSTORMING TECHNIQUESStepladder TechniqueInvented in 1992, the stepladder technique of brainstorming motivates each individual member of the team to make individual idea contributions prior to being influenced by other members in the team. To start the session, the facilitator shares the question or topic with the entire team. Once this is done, barring two members of the team, all other members leave the room. Once the re maining members have left, the two members inside the room proceed to talk about the topic and share their ideas. Once that is done, an additional member must join the group. He presents his individual ideas, hears the ideas of the other two members and then all three in the group inside the room once again engage in a discussion. The process is repeated till all members from the original group have entered the room. This method of idea generation is especially beneficial for teams easily swayed by a member or two, resulting in group think. The method also helps to shed inhibitions of people who are uncomfortable in a group.BrainwritingThis is a written method of brainstorming. The principle behind this technique is to consider idea generation separate to discussion. The leader of the team/facilitator reveals the topic to all the members of the team and each of the members pen their ideas. The process does away with anchoring and motivates all team members to individually come up wi th ideas and share them. One of the advantages of brainwriting is that the participants get more time to ponder over their ideas and this is particularly beneficial if there are any introverts in the team. The technique is particularly suited for teams who appear to be considerably influenced by the opening ideas put forth during a meeting.Six thinking hatsSix thinking hats, a thinking process developed by Edward de Bono is one of the most well-known thought tools. The process involves dividing thinking into six solid roles and functions distinguishable by a specific color of symbolic “thinking hat.” The six color hats and the key words they represent are given below:White Hat â€" facts known or required;Black Hat â€" judgment of how/where something could possibly go wrong;Yellow Hat â€" optimism and brightness (exploration of the positives);Green Hat â€" creativity (alternatives, possibilities, new ideas);Red Hat â€" hunches, intuition and feelings;Blue Hat â€" management (maki ng certain that Six Thinking Hats rules are adhered to).By imagining oneself wearing and changing hats, it is possible to redirect thoughts or focus and to explore a problem from different angles, providing insight that may not be apparent otherwise.Round robin brainstormingThis method starts by getting the members of the team to organize themselves into a circle. After giving the topic, the facilitator goes to each member in the circle one by one, asking each of them to furnish an idea. He stops after everyone’s turn is over. The facilitator should record each idea so that all ideas can be discussed after the idea sharing is over. If any member in the circle has no idea to offer, he may pass. This method ensures the participation of all members (unless of course, one or more decide to pass).Online brainstormingOnline brainstorming is an electronic technique of brainstorming with a document saved on a central server or an online central location through which members of the team c an collaborate. An example of an online central location could be an online collaboration tool or cloud-associated document storage. In addition to making collaboration easy, the central location enables archiving of ideas there for hassle-free reference later.SCAMPERThe word SCAMPER is an acronym and the expansion of each letter is as follows:S â€" SubstituteC CombineA â€" AdaptM â€" ModifyP Put to another useE â€" EliminateR â€" ReverseThe basis for the technique is the assumption that everything new is an alteration of something already in existence. Utilization of the SCAMPER technique starts by stating the problem that needs to be solved, the topic, or the product, service or topic that has to be improved. Once that’s defined, the next step is asking questions using the letters in SCAMPER as basis.StarburstingThe focus of this kind of brainstorming is on developing questions and not answers. Thus, the technique challenges the team to generate as many questions as possible p ertaining to the topic. To make the process easier, the session can be started by listing questions that are associated with who, when, why, what and where (Wh questions). This format makes certain that all facets of the project are looked into prior to execution. It is a helpful technique if the team is one that is inclined to neglect certain facets of a project resulting in a last minute hurry to get things done.CubingThe cubing approach is similar to six thinking hats. It enables the participant (s) to look at the topic from six diverse directions, leading to six approaches or sides to the topic (just like the six sides of a cube). The participant should consider the topic and respond to the following six commands on a sheet of paper.Describe;Compare;Associate;Analyze;Apply;Argue in support of and opposition to.Three to five minutes can be spent on the first five sides/approaches but a full five minutes should be spent for the final (sixth) side.Rapid IdeationThe facilitator/team leader shares the context/topic beforehand and/or questions pertaining to the topic, deadline, budget and so on. After that, a time limit is fixed for the individual members to pen down as many ideas or thoughts pertaining to the topic as possible, utilizing any available mediums. The time limit for a particular session can range from 5 to 45 minutes, varying with the complexity of the topic. Rapid ideation is a great technique to limit the time for brainstorming sessions that tend to prolong, and for teams who are inclined to sidetracking. Two other advantages of this technique are:First, it can be fully tailored to suit the requirements of the project and team. A number of varied mediums may be utilized such as pen and paper, Post-Its and whiteboards, to activate the creative juices. Secondly, the time limit means ideas are produced because the team doesn’t have time to over think or filter.RolestormingRolestorming, a method invented in the 1980s by Rick Griggs is a simple brai nstorming technique that calls for a group of employees or members of a team to assume other people’s identities and start sharing ideas in those identities. By assuming someone else’s identity, a person’s idea may be introduced without worries of how other people may view the presentation. This is because assuming another role distances the person from owning an idea and therefore helps to reduce inhibitions associated with putting ideas forward in a group. The method is very useful for brainstorming discussions on enhancing service and quality or other meetings.MindmappingMindmapping is a technique to graphically represent connections among key concepts using lines, links and images. Each fact or idea is penned down and then connected to its minor or major (previous or following) fact or idea, thereby resulting in a web of relationships. As mindmapping engages both the artistic and analytical faculties of a person’s brain, the brain is put to richer use. The technique was developed by Tony Buzan, a UK researcher.Altering your attributesAltering attributes is about changing one’s attribute, whether gender, race or some other attribute and changing the way one sees a challenge accordingly. Whenever a person changes an attribute in this manner, it causes a crack in the subconscious which in turn opens a fresh door that could lead to a new idea/answer/solution.

Brainstorming - Techniques for Idea Generation

Brainstorming - Techniques for Idea Generation © Shutterstock.com | Rawpixel.comBrainstorming is the first ever technique of idea generation. This article looks at 1) what is brainstorming?, 2) history: Alex Osborn gives birth to brainstorming, 3) steps for effective brainstorming, and 4) 12 fantastic brainstorming techniques.WHAT IS BRAINSTORMINGBrainstorming is an individual or group idea generation technique to find a solution for a particular problem by generating multiple solutions. In fact, importance is attached to the quantity of ideas and not quality at the generation stage. Even strange ideas are welcome in a brainstorming session. Frequently, far-fetched ideas become practical ones with slight modification. Ideas may be blended to create a single great idea as implied by the motto “1+1=3.” Structured brainstorming that proceeds in the right manner utilizes the human brain’s abilities of free association and lateral thinking.HISTORY: ALEX OSBORN GIVES BIRTH TO BRAINSTORMINGIn the 1940s, an advertising executive b y the name of Alex Osborn came up with the technique of brainstorming following his frustration at the inability of employees to come up with innovative ideas for advertising campaigns. The technique was the result of his attempts to fix rules that would provide people with the freedom of action and mind to trigger and reveal fresh ideas. The original name he gave to this ideation process he invented was “think up” before it later came to be called brainstorming. According to Osborn, brainstorming is a conference technique through the practice of which a group endeavors to come up with a solution for a particular problem by collecting all the ideas spontaneously contributed by the participating members.Osborn’s argument was that two principles: 1) defer judgment and 2) reach for quantity helped in achieving ideative efficacy. These principles were followed by Osborn’s four rules of brainstorming which may be outlined as follows:Put the emphasis on quantity of ideas (as the m axim goes, “quantity breeds quality”);Hold back criticism or judgment;Be open to bizarre/strange ideas;Blend ideas to enhance them (1+1=3).These rules were established with the objective of lessening social inhibitions if any among the group members, boosting overall group creativity and of course, fueling idea generation.Osborn was of the opinion that brainstorming should only address one specific question because he believed that sessions that tried to tackle many questions were unproductive.STEPS FOR EFFECTIVE BRAINSTORMINGA brainstorming session may be carried out in any of many different ways. Given below is a 7-step process.Step #1: Decide on a suitable place and facilitatorThe brainstorming has to be conducted in a comfortable environment so that you can get the best output from the participants. A well-lit conference room would be good. It should be possible for the facilitator to take notes â€" make use of flip charts, a computer or white board (whichever would suit you r group). If you expect the session to last a long time, you might want to arrange snacks and refreshments. Ensure that there is adequate paper and stationery.Appoint one person as a team manager/leader and another as an idea recorder. It would be difficult for one person alone to handle both responsibilities.Step #2: Decide on the participantsDevote some time to deciding who should be called to participate in the session. A simple rule to apply here would be to choose the people who would have the answers to the question you intend to put forth. This may seem obvious but very frequently, the selection of participants is based more on their position in the organization’s corporate ladder than on their specific knowledge. You can also consider including people with different thinking styles or associated with a diversity of disciplines.Step #3: Specify the problem for which possible solutions are to be found and the goalIt is important that the problem for which brainstorming is to be done, be stated clearly. A good way to ensure this would be to write the problem lucidly at the head of the board. Everyone should comprehend the objective of the session. With the topic in full view all through the session, there is a greater likelihood of the session staying focused. Also remember that the participants should be given the necessary background information before the brainstorming. The best time is before the session though sometimes it may have to be shared while the session is in progress. Here’s an example: Suppose the problem is how to make sure employees always register their time of arrival at and exit from the office. For that you can provide background information such as:Why the irregular clocking in and out is a problem;Which are the groups forgetting to do so;How the business is losing because of this and so on.Last of all, it is also important to delineate the solutions space. Come up with rules, boundaries and criteria for the ideas that are to be generated. This will ensure that time doesn’t go to waste checking out ideas that don’t fit the bill.Step #4: Set a time limitState the time limit at the very beginning. 5 or 10 minutes may do but sometimes more time may be required. Whatever you decide, state it up front.Step #5: Diverge prior to convergingThis is a suggestion. Allow everyone to pen down their ideas prior to the start of the session so that there is no time lost in talking about just one or a few ideas. This would help you to bring in a little argument into the discussion whenever it is possible.Step #6: Let the brainstorming beginStart the brainstorming. You can expect some bad ideas but members of the team/group should be instructed in advance not to criticize/comment negatively till after the session is over, however dumb or strange the idea sounds. The person in charge of note taking should note down all the ideas as they come, bereft of any criticism or comment. Breaks are permissible in case the brainsto rming session gets too long.Step #7: Choose the best ideas (based on pre-determined criteria)Select the best ideas after short-listing the ones that meet the pre-determined criteria. One way to make things easier is to score each of the ideas a number from 0 to 5 depending on the degree to which it satisfies each of the pre-determined criterion. Once that’s done, add up the scores. The one with the highest score can be taken as the best idea. However, if this best idea is not practical, in spite of the scores, you can look for the second best one.12 FANTASTIC BRAINSTORMING TECHNIQUESStepladder TechniqueInvented in 1992, the stepladder technique of brainstorming motivates each individual member of the team to make individual idea contributions prior to being influenced by other members in the team. To start the session, the facilitator shares the question or topic with the entire team. Once this is done, barring two members of the team, all other members leave the room. Once the re maining members have left, the two members inside the room proceed to talk about the topic and share their ideas. Once that is done, an additional member must join the group. He presents his individual ideas, hears the ideas of the other two members and then all three in the group inside the room once again engage in a discussion. The process is repeated till all members from the original group have entered the room. This method of idea generation is especially beneficial for teams easily swayed by a member or two, resulting in group think. The method also helps to shed inhibitions of people who are uncomfortable in a group.BrainwritingThis is a written method of brainstorming. The principle behind this technique is to consider idea generation separate to discussion. The leader of the team/facilitator reveals the topic to all the members of the team and each of the members pen their ideas. The process does away with anchoring and motivates all team members to individually come up wi th ideas and share them. One of the advantages of brainwriting is that the participants get more time to ponder over their ideas and this is particularly beneficial if there are any introverts in the team. The technique is particularly suited for teams who appear to be considerably influenced by the opening ideas put forth during a meeting.Six thinking hatsSix thinking hats, a thinking process developed by Edward de Bono is one of the most well-known thought tools. The process involves dividing thinking into six solid roles and functions distinguishable by a specific color of symbolic “thinking hat.” The six color hats and the key words they represent are given below:White Hat â€" facts known or required;Black Hat â€" judgment of how/where something could possibly go wrong;Yellow Hat â€" optimism and brightness (exploration of the positives);Green Hat â€" creativity (alternatives, possibilities, new ideas);Red Hat â€" hunches, intuition and feelings;Blue Hat â€" management (maki ng certain that Six Thinking Hats rules are adhered to).By imagining oneself wearing and changing hats, it is possible to redirect thoughts or focus and to explore a problem from different angles, providing insight that may not be apparent otherwise.Round robin brainstormingThis method starts by getting the members of the team to organize themselves into a circle. After giving the topic, the facilitator goes to each member in the circle one by one, asking each of them to furnish an idea. He stops after everyone’s turn is over. The facilitator should record each idea so that all ideas can be discussed after the idea sharing is over. If any member in the circle has no idea to offer, he may pass. This method ensures the participation of all members (unless of course, one or more decide to pass).Online brainstormingOnline brainstorming is an electronic technique of brainstorming with a document saved on a central server or an online central location through which members of the team c an collaborate. An example of an online central location could be an online collaboration tool or cloud-associated document storage. In addition to making collaboration easy, the central location enables archiving of ideas there for hassle-free reference later.SCAMPERThe word SCAMPER is an acronym and the expansion of each letter is as follows:S â€" SubstituteC CombineA â€" AdaptM â€" ModifyP Put to another useE â€" EliminateR â€" ReverseThe basis for the technique is the assumption that everything new is an alteration of something already in existence. Utilization of the SCAMPER technique starts by stating the problem that needs to be solved, the topic, or the product, service or topic that has to be improved. Once that’s defined, the next step is asking questions using the letters in SCAMPER as basis.StarburstingThe focus of this kind of brainstorming is on developing questions and not answers. Thus, the technique challenges the team to generate as many questions as possible p ertaining to the topic. To make the process easier, the session can be started by listing questions that are associated with who, when, why, what and where (Wh questions). This format makes certain that all facets of the project are looked into prior to execution. It is a helpful technique if the team is one that is inclined to neglect certain facets of a project resulting in a last minute hurry to get things done.CubingThe cubing approach is similar to six thinking hats. It enables the participant (s) to look at the topic from six diverse directions, leading to six approaches or sides to the topic (just like the six sides of a cube). The participant should consider the topic and respond to the following six commands on a sheet of paper.Describe;Compare;Associate;Analyze;Apply;Argue in support of and opposition to.Three to five minutes can be spent on the first five sides/approaches but a full five minutes should be spent for the final (sixth) side.Rapid IdeationThe facilitator/team leader shares the context/topic beforehand and/or questions pertaining to the topic, deadline, budget and so on. After that, a time limit is fixed for the individual members to pen down as many ideas or thoughts pertaining to the topic as possible, utilizing any available mediums. The time limit for a particular session can range from 5 to 45 minutes, varying with the complexity of the topic. Rapid ideation is a great technique to limit the time for brainstorming sessions that tend to prolong, and for teams who are inclined to sidetracking. Two other advantages of this technique are:First, it can be fully tailored to suit the requirements of the project and team. A number of varied mediums may be utilized such as pen and paper, Post-Its and whiteboards, to activate the creative juices. Secondly, the time limit means ideas are produced because the team doesn’t have time to over think or filter.RolestormingRolestorming, a method invented in the 1980s by Rick Griggs is a simple brai nstorming technique that calls for a group of employees or members of a team to assume other people’s identities and start sharing ideas in those identities. By assuming someone else’s identity, a person’s idea may be introduced without worries of how other people may view the presentation. This is because assuming another role distances the person from owning an idea and therefore helps to reduce inhibitions associated with putting ideas forward in a group. The method is very useful for brainstorming discussions on enhancing service and quality or other meetings.MindmappingMindmapping is a technique to graphically represent connections among key concepts using lines, links and images. Each fact or idea is penned down and then connected to its minor or major (previous or following) fact or idea, thereby resulting in a web of relationships. As mindmapping engages both the artistic and analytical faculties of a person’s brain, the brain is put to richer use. The technique was developed by Tony Buzan, a UK researcher.Altering your attributesAltering attributes is about changing one’s attribute, whether gender, race or some other attribute and changing the way one sees a challenge accordingly. Whenever a person changes an attribute in this manner, it causes a crack in the subconscious which in turn opens a fresh door that could lead to a new idea/answer/solution.