Worst Possible Idea

Purpose

Worst Possible Idea is a fast energiser that removes the fear of suggesting bad ideas. By deliberately chasing the worst solution, participants loosen up, laugh, and often stumble onto creative insights that a conventional brainstorm would never surface.

At a glance

How to run

1. Pose the challenge (2 min): State the problem the team will ideate on.
2. Generate worst ideas (5 min): Each person writes or draws the absolute worst solution they can imagine.
3. Share and crown the worst (5 min): Each person presents. The group votes on the most hilariously terrible idea.
4. Bridge to real ideation (3 min): Ask: "What makes this so bad? What is the opposite?" Use insights to segue into a productive brainstorm.

Materials needed

• Sticky notes or paper
• Markers
• A light attitude

Pitfalls & common mistakes

• Taking it too seriously: This is meant to be fun. If the facilitator is stiff, it falls flat.
• Stopping at the laugh: The real value is in the transition to serious ideation.
• Offensive ideas: Ground rule: creative and absurd, not harmful or targeting people.

Inclusion & accessibility

• Low barrier to entry — everyone can come up with a bad idea.
• Drawing is an alternative to writing for those less comfortable with text.
• The humour helps anxious participants feel safe contributing.

Variations

• Gallery of Shame: Post all worst ideas on a wall for a gallery walk before voting.
• Worst Pitch: Present the worst idea as a serious elevator pitch for extra comedy.
• Reverse into Solutions: Systematically invert each worst idea.

When NOT to use this

• When the topic is sensitive or tragic.
• When the group has no time for a warm-up.
• When participants do not share a common language for humour.

Source & further reading

• IDEO design thinking toolkit
• Interaction Design Foundation: Worst Possible Idea
• Gamestorming: Worst Idea