Benefiting at work from Brain Based Insights

When you identify an opposing view to support a project… you often find an unexpected plan that’s likely to succeed. Opposite views  work especially well to draw out the best and the brightest. Have you ever noticed how people who know more than others often remain quiet when a project takes one strong direction without making space for alternatives?

When people operate and solve problems using familiar approaches have known in past … a comfort level takes over… and many of the best thinkers are excluded from resolving touch challenges that arise.

To develop the opposite of your project idea… is also to create space for more original thinkers from diverse backgrounds. The alternative plan should be developed with an opposite set of assumptions from those in the firm’s current traditions. If the organization assumed one type of market… for instance… develop an opposing project idea … based on another type of market.

Scott Thorpe, author of the book…How to Think Like Einstein …showed how Thomas Edison had one idea about designing power stations in every neighborhood because it was difficult to transmit electricity over a distance.

George Westinghouse used an opposite plan and showed how alternating current voltages can be increased for efficient transport over long distances, and then reduced for safe home use. It took time and creativity for Westinghouse to solve many glitches along the way… but we all benefit from  Westinghouse’s AC electricity that powered the world.

When you look at opposite designs for a project… you are often staring into the face of a solution that broadens a firm’s visions and increases productivity. Do you agree?