The Lotus Blossom technique is an easy exercise if you need to create ideas quickly. It can help you to expand on one idea theme quickly, either working solo or as a team.

The technique was created by Yasuo Matsumura, a management consultant working in Japan. It may look complicated, but it's a simple and effective way of using free association to create ideas, and a good alternative to the mind map.

How it works:

1. Begin by establishing your central theme in a square at the centre of your page.
2. From this central theme, branch out with eight related ideas, each written in its own square surrounding the centre.
3. Then, take each of those eight secondary ideas and let them become the centre of their own set of eight new related ideas, each in its own square.
4. Continue this outward expansion, developing new layers of ideas as you see fit.

Watch how to use the method to create ideas quickly

Brainstorming fuels creativity. Don't worry if initial ideas aren't perfect or directly on point. Even the weaker ideas can trigger new, better ones. Create ideas quickly by generating many suggestions and valuing all contributions. It helps when everyone can share more freely, without fear of judgement. 

When might you use the Lotus Blossom method?

• As a starting point to tackle a particular business challenge, expanding on ideas quickly.
• To engage and include multiple stakeholders in idea generation, allowing everyone to input.
• To find wider opportunities to improve your business, product or service.
• To help see the bigger picture or context of an idea and to unlock different thoughts.
• When you might be trying to find themes to kick-start a naming project
• When you are feeling stuck and need to find a different angle to the idea or challenge.

Remember, every idea is a valuable, even if it never comes to fruition.

Get unpacking your ideas!