Collaborations and permanence are the two most important, un-interchangeable aspects of technological advancement in today’s ever-changing business environment. Thanks in part to easy access to the internet and the explosion of cloud-based applications, one thing that continues to stand out is how modern day businesses are trying to improve employee collaborations, as well as supercharge workforce performance by embracing technological innovations that promise to deliver effective results.
And while the idea of company brainstorms has been around for more than a century, the focus now is on eliminating the need for the ponderous written transcription, as seen with the recently introduced Samsung Fl!p (spelt with an exclamation instead of the letter “I”). This award-winning innovation, which competes with more expensive offerings such as Google Jamboard and Microsoft Surface Hub – all which are doing their best to transform the conventional whiteboards experience – is designed with one thing in mind; to ensure permanence of discussions by way of securing or storing content in a centralized database, or on an external drive for personal use.
The pixel-rich flip-chart comes complete with an LCD touchscreen and a super responsive stylus for writing and drawing, making it feel like you’re using a marker on a board; by the way, you can also use your finger to achieve the same results. Additionally, users are able to take notes, present and distribute ideas in either landscape or portrait orientation.
Using flip-charts effectively is the basic skill every competent presenter must possess. Here are ways to do it, courtesy of Samsung South Africa;
Make a statement
The first step should be to determine a clear problem that the brainstorming session will address. This could take the form of a question, such as “How can we expand our logistics network in and around Gauteng?” It’s then essential to set boundaries for possible solutions. For example, solutions may need to be implemented within three months. The tighter the boundaries set, the greater the chances of finding appropriate solutions.
Clarify the statement
Next, compile any additional information participants will need to know. If possible, send the details ahead of time to elicit more productive responses during the session. Additionally, it’s important to establish definitions of key terms and ideas so everyone works from the same page. The process of unpacking this information is itself a catalyst for effective brainstorming.
Choose the right facilitator
The facilitator can make or break a brainstorm. They should be selected based on their ability to keep the session on track and be unbiased. Their central role is to make sure everyone participates and that no one dominates the discussion. Importantly, the person selected should be approachable. An imposing senior manager, for example, could prevent the free flow of thoughts.
Get the right group dynamic
Where possible, invite a diverse mix of participants from varying cultures, backgrounds and age groups. Some of the best ideas are generated when a group is made up of individuals with different perspectives on the same problem.
Embrace new technology to benefit the business
Technology has touched every facet of the business world and can positively impact a brainstorm session. A great example of this is the Samsung Flip, which has transformed the traditional flip-chart, making fully synchronized collaboration possible in meetings. Those with a laptop, tablet or smartphone can mirror their share content instantly, using built-in email, distributed over your network or saved to USB storage.
“The best business solutions are often unearthed in conditions conducive to lateral thinking and the sharing of insights. When brainstorm sessions are organised, collaborative and the initial results are easily shared, the ideas arrive like a bolt of lightning from the skies. That’s when the power of brainstorming makes an impact on the bottom line”, advises Samsung SA director of Consumer Electronics, Reginald Nxumalo.
