How to generate great ideas

Following are some of the tips to generate great ideas

Connecting Dots from Disparate Fields : What if we combine this one existing idea/product with another existing idea/product to solve a problem?

Expanded Knowledge Base : Creativity is about connecting the dots. The more dots you have to work with, the more combinations available to help generate new ideas. Curiosity generates more knowledge (dots), which precedes creativity. Creative people always ask why and continuously question the assumptions behind the existing business models, product designs, and business processes.One thing we know about creativity is that it typically occurs when people who have mastered two or more quite different fields use the framework in one to think afresh about the other.
Imagination is the right brain asking what if by connecting dots in imaginative ways, as reflected by Einstein’s quote, “Imagination is more important than knowledge. Knowledge is limited. Imagination encircles the world.”

Nominal Stress (Creative Tension) : For the violin string to produce the right tone it needs the right amount of stress. Under too much tension the string snaps; without any tension, it does not produce any music. Similarly the mind needs creative tension. Creative tension is the gap between where we are and where we want to be.

Takes Time : Creative problem solving requires time to engage the mind in exploring what if before locking into how to. Also, it takes time to develop a raw creative idea and get it ready for implementation.

Stay curious : Every year ask yourself, “How am I more valuable to my organization than I was a year ago? Make a habit of asking questions. Seek assignments beyond your job description. Attend industry conferences outside your field. Take full advantage of every learning opportunity every experience is a building block to a creative life.


Few other tips :

• Developing creative ideas requires persistence. 
• Engage in Observation Sessions 
• Socialize Outside Your Normal Circles
• Read More Books
• Randomly Surf the Web
• Keep a Regular Journal
• Meditate