| Random
Word technique
This is an example of a creativity technique - a quick
stimulus for getting a fresh insight into your problem. Try the quick exercise below on a
real problem to see it in action. If you want time to think, you can go offline - there is
no processing during the exercise. We have a worked example if
it helps to make the technique clearer (note this will change the random word).
First think of a problem you have, or an new idea or
direction you would like to develop. Jot down a few words about it.
[If your browser does not support Java Script, you
will not see a word above. Try picking a word at random from a dictionary ... or upgrading
to Navigator 4/IE 4. Our apologies!]
This word has been chosen at random from a list on the web
site. First of all, spend a minute noting down any associations you have with this word.
What does it make you think of? Have you any memories associated with it? Jot down a few
words or short phrases the word makes you think of.
Now look back at your problem. Think about the associations
you have generated for the random word. How could you use any of the associations and
memories you jotted down? Is there anything you could do differently, inspired by these
thoughts? Be as indirect as you like; perhaps one of the associations will make you think
of something completely different that will help with your problem. Here's a box to note
your thoughts:
If you are finding it difficult to think of something
appropriate, see our worked example for inspiration. When you
return the random word will have changed - ignore that and stick with your original
associations.
There's nothing magical about Random Word. In fact it won't
always work, but it is one of a range of creativity techniques that will regularly deliver
new ideas by pushing your own creativity out of its rut. Try it again on something
different - click on the Refresh button of your browser for a new word.
There are many more creativity techniques available - see
elsewhere on this page for suggestions of how to get hold of them.
Copyright © Creativity
Unleashed Limited 2006
Last update 01 April 2005
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