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Lotus Blossom Technique

Problem solvingCreative: idea generation

Reference model

Lotus Blossom TechniqueA canvas of 9 boxes laid out on a grid of 4 columns and 4 rows: Idea 1, Idea 2, Idea 3, Idea 4, Central Idea, Idea 5, Idea 6, Idea 7, Idea 8.Idea 1First related ideaIdea 2Second related ideaIdea 3Third related ideaIdea 4Fourth related ideaCentral IdeaThe main theme orproblem at the centreof the blossomIdea 5Fifth related ideaIdea 6Sixth related ideaIdea 7Seventh related ideaIdea 8Eighth related idea

The Lotus Blossom Technique expands ideas outward from a central theme.

About this model

A visual brainstorming tool that helps teams explore a central idea and its related concepts in a structured manner, facilitating deeper thinking and creativity.

Originator not stated.

How to read it

  • Start with a central idea in the middle box.
  • Fill in related ideas in the eight surrounding boxes, expanding outwards.

What this does

Generates and organizes ideas by expanding on a central theme through a structured approach, allowing for deeper exploration of related concepts.

When to use it

Use it when a team needs to brainstorm and develop ideas around a central theme or problem, especially in a collaborative setting.

Not when: Do not use it when the team lacks a clear central theme or when time is severely limited for idea generation.

What happens next

Consider using a prioritization matrix to evaluate the generated ideas.

Golden thread

Builds on ←

  • Problem statement
  • Brainstorming session

Feeds into →

  • Action plan

Use this tool, free

Sign in to open the worksheet. Your work saves as you type, the AI can draft the parts you have not filled in, and you finish with an analysis and a 30/60/90-day action plan.

Drafted with AI and reviewed by Eccellere on 04/11/2026. Guidance, not advice: apply your own judgement.