What is the method called that involves generating a large number of creative ideas?

The method that involves generating a large number of creative ideas is called brainstorming. This technique encourages individuals or groups to think freely and suggest a wide range of ideas without immediate criticism or judgment. The goal of brainstorming is to create a rich pool of ideas that can later be refined and evaluated for their potential.

In a brainstorming session, participants are often encouraged to build upon each other’s contributions, which fosters collaboration and sparks further creativity. This method is useful in various contexts, including problem-solving, product development, and creative projects, as it taps into the diverse perspectives and experiences of the group.

While mind mapping is a visual tool that can help in organizing thoughts and ideas, it is not primarily focused on generating a multitude of ideas like brainstorming is. Creative visualization involves mental imagery for goal attainment or problem-solving and does not emphasize the collaborative and free-flowing ideation process characteristic of brainstorming. Strategic planning, on the other hand, is a structured approach to defining an organization's direction and making decisions about resource allocation, which typically involves more analysis and less open-ended idea generation.