Ideation · intermediate · 45 min
Starbursting
Starbursting is a brainstorming technique that focuses on generating questions rather than answers. It helps teams explore all aspects of a problem or opportunity by asking who, what, when, where, why, and how.
What participants gain
- Generate a wide range of questions related to a specific topic.
- Explore different perspectives and angles on a problem.
- Identify knowledge gaps and areas for further research.
- Improve critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Materials needed
- Whiteboard or large paper
- Markers
- Post-it notes
- Timer
- Starbursting template (optional)
How to run Starbursting, step by step
- Introduce the concept of Starbursting and its purpose.
- Define the central problem or opportunity to be explored.
- Draw a six-pointed star on the whiteboard and label each point with: Who, What, When, Where, Why, How.
- Divide participants into smaller groups or work as a whole group.
- Instruct participants to generate questions related to each category, writing each question on a Post-it note.
- Collect all questions and organize them under the appropriate category on the whiteboard.
- Discuss the questions and identify key themes and areas for further investigation.
- Prioritize the questions based on their importance and potential impact.
Facilitator tips
- Encourage participants to ask open-ended questions.
- Ensure all question categories are addressed.
- Use a whiteboard to capture all questions.
Common challenges
- Participants struggle to ask questions - Provide examples of good questions to prompt thinking.
- Discussions get sidetracked - Keep the focus on generating questions, not answering them.
- Team gets stuck - Review the core problem and redirect question generation
Running it virtually
Use a virtual whiteboard like Miro or Mural to collaboratively generate questions. Assign breakout rooms for smaller groups to focus on specific question categories.
Expected results
A comprehensive list of questions that explore all facets of a problem or opportunity. Identification of key areas needing further investigation.
Build a session around Starbursting
METODIC drops Starbursting into a complete session plan with timing, materials, worksheets, and a facilitator guide — for any workshop, meeting, or team session.