Alternative Uses

CREATIVE THINKING 10 Mins Submitted by: Workshopr.io

Overview

Classic creativity exercise challenging participants to generate as many alternative uses as possible for common objects. By encouraging divergent thinking and creative problem-solving, participants break free from conventional patterns and discover innovative approaches. Teams emerge with stronger relationships and increased readiness for the work ahead.

Participants

  • 4-30 people

Duration

10 Mins

Materials Needed

  • Paper (blank sheets or notebooks for individual brainstorming). For remote sessions: video conferencing platform with breakout room capability.

Objectives

• Practice divergent thinking • Overcome functional fixedness • Develop creative confidence • Warm up innovative thinking

Expected Outcomes

Increased team cohesion and interpersonal connection Higher energy levels and engagement Deeper mutual understanding among participants Foundation for productive collaboration

How to Run This Icebreaker

  1. Introduction (1 min): Generate alternative uses for common objects like paperclips or bricks. Focus on quantity over quality. 2. Individual Work (3 min): Participants prepare their contributions. 3. Sharing Round (5 min): Each person shares with the group. 4. Wrap-up (2 min): Reflect on common themes and insights.

Variations

Design tool focus

What Changes: Narrow the activity focus to a specific theme, topic, or context relevant to your team.

Why Use It: Increases relevance and applicability to current projects or challenges. Makes insights more immediately acti