What should teams avoid doing when narrowing down ideas?

When narrowing down ideas, teams should avoid voting on which ideas to pursue because this method can lead to a few potential pitfalls. Voting tends to prioritize popularity over merit, which might result in the exclusion of innovative or less popular ideas that could have substantial value. It can also create an environment where louder voices dominate, potentially sidelining quieter team members or those with valuable but less assertive contributions.

Moreover, voting can limit the depth of discussion around ideas, as it often results in a simple selection process rather than a thorough evaluation of each suggestion's potential. Engaging in open discussions and considering diverse viewpoints fosters a more collaborative and creative environment, allowing teams to refine ideas and address any potential weaknesses before making decisions. Thus, while voting may seem like a straightforward method for decision-making, it is often more beneficial for teams to engage in deeper discussions to effectively analyze and develop their ideas.