1 Define the problem and the goal

Before you start brainstorming solutions, make sure that everyone agrees on what the problem is and what the desired outcome is. This will help you avoid confusion, conflict, and wasted time. You can use a simple statement or a question to frame the problem and the goal, and invite everyone to share their perspectives and assumptions. For example, you can say: "The problem is that our website has a high bounce rate. The goal is to increase user engagement and retention. How do you see this problem and what factors do you think are influencing it?"

2 Establish ground rules and roles

To facilitate a respectful and constructive dialogue, you need to set some ground rules and roles for your collaborative problem-solving session. The ground rules should cover how you will communicate, share ideas, give feedback, and make decisions. For example, you can agree to use active listening, avoid interrupting, acknowledge different opinions, and use a voting system or a consensus method to choose the best solution. The roles should define who will lead, facilitate, record, or present the problem-solving process. You can assign roles based on skills, interests, or availability, or rotate them among the participants.

3 Use diverse and creative methods

To generate and evaluate solutions, you need to use diverse and creative methods that can elicit different types of thinking and input from your collaborators. You can use techniques such as brainstorming, mind mapping, SWOT analysis, prototyping, or testing to explore various options and scenarios. You can also use tools such as sticky notes, whiteboards, online platforms, or surveys to collect and organize ideas and feedback. The key is to encourage everyone to contribute, ask questions, challenge assumptions, and experiment with different possibilities.

4 Provide feedback and recognition

To maintain a positive and supportive atmosphere, you need to provide feedback and recognition throughout the collaborative problem-solving process. Feedback should be specific, constructive, and timely, and focus on the strengths and weaknesses of the solutions, not the people. Recognition should be sincere, meaningful, and frequent, and celebrate the efforts and achievements of the collaborators. You can use verbal praise, written comments, or rewards to express your appreciation and gratitude for the contributions of your collaborators.