Brainstorming demonstrates an agency 's openness to new ideas and its commitment to working with community participants. It leads to further study of unexplored ideas. It helps find common ground for consensus about a solution. Brainstorming is easily understood and implemented. No special training is required for participants to express their ideas.
All sides expect open and frank exposition of points of view.
Argumentative behavior is discouraged and creativity appreciated. Anyone can participate in a brainstorming session. It is useful to encourage participants from diverse backgrounds and interests in the issue to be discussed. Providing background informa tion to participants bolsters the ability of each to contribute. Information should be distributed in advance of the session, if possible.