A facilitator asks each team member in turn to suggest one idea during a brainstorming session. This is an appropriate method to use when

The technique described is round-robin brainstorming, a structured approach to idea generation. Its primary purpose is to ensure equal participation by systematically soliciting one idea from each member in turn. This method is most effective for mitigating common group dynamic issues, specifically when dominant or highly vocal members monopolize the session, preventing quieter or more introverted members from contributing. By creating a formal structure for participation, it guarantees that every individual has a dedicated opportunity to speak, thereby balancing the discussion and fostering a more inclusive environment for idea sharing.

A. The presence of senior managers can be a cause of stifled discussion, but the direct problem being solved by this technique is the stifling itself, making option D more precise.

B. Team members sitting for an extended period relates to physical fatigue or low energy, which is better addressed with a break or a different energizing activity, not a specific brainstorming format.

C. Round-robin brainstorming can be more methodical and slower than unstructured brainstorming, making it less suitable when speed is the primary concern for meeting tight deadlines.

1. ASQ Quality Press. (2017). The Certified Quality Engineer Handbook (4th ed.). In Chapter 6

Part V

"The Quality Management System

" the section on Team Tools and Techniques describes structured brainstorming (round-robin) as a method used to "balance the participation between dominant and more reserved members of the team" (p. 103).

2. DeFeo

J. A. (2017). Juran's Quality Handbook: The Complete Guide to Performance Excellence (7th ed.). McGraw-Hill Education. Section 5

"The Quality Management Process

" explains that structured brainstorming methods are employed to "prevent domination by one or two members and to encourage participation by the entire group" (p. 158).

3. Besterfield

D. H. (2013). Quality Improvement (9th ed.). Pearson. In Chapter 3

"Teamwork and Problem Solving

" the text discusses brainstorming variations

noting that the round-robin method "gives everyone an opportunity to participate" and is particularly useful for managing overly dominant members (pp. 65-66).