Immediate criticism can prevent a group from exploring unfamiliar ideas. Delaying evaluation briefly can help, provided the team later returns to feasibility and requirements.
IDEO.org sets out brainstorming rules intended to support creative participation. IDEO.org Design Kit — Brainstorm Rules.
Make the phase clear
For a character workshop, explain when the group is generating possibilities and when it will assess them. Participants should not interpret the temporary absence of criticism as approval to manufacture an idea.
Return to the evidence
After exploration, review the alternatives against the brief and relevant constraints. Preserve distinctive directions long enough to understand their purpose. An enjoyable session is useful, but its atmosphere does not establish product feasibility, demand or permission to use third-party material.
Source reviewed 25 October 2026. Interpretation and original diagrams: PLUSHIP / Qunhe. Examples are illustrative.
Related reading
Brainstorm Character Interactions Before Listing Accessories
Bundle Compatible Ideas Before Adding More Features