The construction of web-based multifunctional brainstorming system

Brainstorming was first introduced by Osborn to promote group creativity in design work [1]. For many years, this methodology has been proven useful and effective for promoting the outcome of group creativity. The objective of this paper is to investigate how a networking environment affects group creativity and associated creative thinking activity. We believe that, traditional activities are strengthened by the use of information technology. In this paper, a web-based brainstorming system is introduced. It is based on the Internet which provides a multi-dimensional forum to support brainstorming activity. This system has session facilitation and management unit, a multimedia supporting unit, an expert assessment unit, and a knowledge management unit. With the assistant of information technology, the quality and quantity of ideas generated during traditional and networked activity is compared and discussed. An experiment was conducted and the results showed that the uniqueness and usefulness of ideas generated during networked activity is superior to those generated in a more traditional manner. The quantity of ideas was also increased using networking.