Ideation is the process of creating ideas that solve various issues or create something entirely new. Ideation is useful in any context, from business ventures to creative works and serves as a beneficial tool for thought processes.

The ideation process begins with simply conceiving something, derived from past knowledge or experience, and culminates with the execution of an idea or concept. In the business setting, it can involve the brainstorming of ideas, gathering a team to discuss platforms, or utilizing online forums or surveys. Ideation can take any form, depending on the desired goal, and anyone from the top of the chain to the bottom can provide their expertise in the process.

The primary purpose of the ideation process is to devise and generate an idea with purposeful intent. Generally, the ideation process begins with a problem or goal in mind, which is then dissected, analyzed, and discussed in detail until a plan is formulated. Three main styles of ideation are problem solutions, derivative ideas, and symbiotic ideas.

Problem solutions involve creating results that are focused on fixing the initial issue described. This style operates off of a linear process and when starting with a script, ideology, or concept; one must think thoroughly in order to come up with a viable solution.

Derivative ideas refer to questions that allow any observed object or concept to be elucidated and researched further. Exploring derivative questions provides room for creativity and expansion. Ideas created could be building off of an existing concept or creating something entirely new.

Lastly, symbiotic ideas, also referred to as hybrid ideas, focus on combining two or more concepts to create one new, comprehensive solution to a pre-existing problem. Similarly, these ideas can derive from already existing components or something entirely new.

Ideation can be an extremely valuable tool for any business, individual, or team. The process can start with a spark of genuis or even a desperate attempt to solve a problem. In any case, ideation can be a useful resource for the creative process of problem solving or simply exploring something already previously known.