SYNECTICS
The Synectic Method of group idea generation was invented by William J. J. Gordon around 1960. Synectics is a Greek word meaning the fitting together of seemingly diverse elements. The technique uses metamorphical and analogous information exchanges within a carefully selected group of individuals of varying personalities and areas of specialization, with the team leader playing a dominant role during the discussion.
The problem is first explained t to the team (leader, five to ten members, a recorder) in detail and is repeated until all understand it thoroughly. The leader then begins the selection by choosing the method of attack, such as role playing, an investigation of certain minute details of the problem, or presentation of an analogous situation which may or may not have a direct bearing on the problem. When an interesting idea of possible significance is suggested by someone in the group, the leader attempts to steer the discussion into an elaboration of, and sometimes an analysis of, the idea.