Option generation is a tool used in Collaborative Practice used to help choose the best available solution. Choosing the best available solution implies having considered alternatives before making a final selection. It only works if there are several options available and, in the ideal world, there will be several high-quality options from which to choose.
The difficulty lies in developing a good list of options. There are a number of ways in which to develop a range of options for discussion by a group. Ideas could be generated by groups or individuals; by professionals or clients; by subject matter experts; or through a combination of methods.
Many Collaborative teams use brainstorming to generate options.
What Are Ways to Expand Options?
•If the goal is to have a range of quality ideas available for group evaluation and discussion, it seems important to have a process that generates high-quality ideas.
• If the goal is for clients to be true participants in the process, it seems important to provide an environment that is conducive to soliciting client ideas. Necessarily, this is an environment in which clients feel safe, without undue time constraints or pressures of a group.
• If the goal is to have clients have the benefit of being able to consider ideas from professionals who have subject matter expertise, it seems important to have a process that allows the professionals to contribute (but not dominate).
Let me know your ideas for option generation that work!