Methods of facilitating idea generation in teams within the system of creative management

Abstract

The article provides a systematic analysis of facilitation methods for idea generation in teams through the lens of creative management as a purposeful organizational management subsystem responsible for creating conditions, processes, and culture for systematic generation, selection, and implementation of ideas. The categorical framework of the study is defined: the concepts of creative management, facilitation, ideation, and team are delineated; demarcation between facilitation, moderation, coaching, and training as different roles of process support is established. Based on the 4P creativity model, the dynamic componential model, and the interactionist model, the place of ideation facilitation in the organizational creativity management system is substantiated. Cognitive and group mechanisms of idea generation are examined, including divergent thinking, associative theory, the SIAM model, as well as process losses of team interaction (production blocking, evaluation apprehension, social loafing, illusion of group productivity) and process gains (cognitive stimulation, synergy, building on ideas). A three-axis typology of facilitation methods by process phase, stimulation mechanism, and interaction structure is proposed. A critical analysis of key methods is conducted: brainstorming, brainwriting 6-3-5, SCAMPER, Design Thinking, LEGO Serious Play, World Café, nominal group technique, and AI-assisted ideation using large language models. Contextual factors of method effectiveness are identified: task type, team size and diversity, psychological safety level, facilitator competencies, physical and digital environment, and time pressure. An original five-stage "facilitation cycle" model (contracting, priming, divergence, convergence, reflection and handover) and a method selection matrix based on task type and team characteristics are developed. The specifics of applying facilitation methods in Ukrainian wartime conditions and necessity-driven innovation are substantiated.