Three Surprising Benefits of Using AI for Brainstorming

By definition, brainstorming is a spontaneous group discussion to generate ideas and solve problems. Hopefully, that definition can be expanded to include AI tools—because my creative process as a communication and marketing professional has changed dramatically over the last year. Here are three ways I’ve found AI to be a powerful brainstorming partner:

1. Clarifying the Problem

Crafting an effective AI prompt forces me to clearly articulate the problem I’m trying to solve. I start a brainstorming session by outlining the audience, the challenge, available resources, timeline, and desired outcome—everything I know about the project. Instead of talking to myself or scribbling in a notebook, I frame my thoughts in a logical, concise way. Gone are the fuzzy, half-formed ideas bouncing around in my head.

2. Faster Than a Lightbulb

I may never get used to how fast AI tools respond to prompts. For a busy association professional juggling multiple demands, this speed is a game-changer. If an AI tool isn’t the right fit for a particular problem, I find out in minutes—not hours. Instead of procrastinating until I “have the time” to tackle something, I now toss an idea into the AI and see what emerges. Gone is the excuse of not having enough time to start.

3. Thinking Without Bias

This might be the most valuable benefit: AI doesn’t bring preconceived bias into the brainstorming session. It doesn’t care about past budget cuts, disappointing campaigns, or “the way we’ve always done it.” I have been pleasantly surprised that AI often takes my question one step further than expected—offering suggestions, frameworks, or even a checklist to keep the project moving. I’ve even asked, “Is there anything I should have asked that I didn’t?”—and the answers have often sparked new directions I hadn’t considered. Gone are the self-imposed limitations I didn’t realize I was carrying.

It’s important to follow your organization’s AI usage policies—especially regarding what information can be shared. A good rule of thumb: If you wouldn’t post it publicly on your website, don’t input it into a public AI tool. And remember, AI is not a replacement for your professional experience, team feedback, or member insights. It’s a tool—one that helps you move faster, think deeper, and explore more possibilities.

Whether you’re planning a new event, revamping member communications, or launching a PR campaign, AI can be a valuable ally. Brainstorming might traditionally be defined as a group activity—but my AI tools have become an indispensable part of my creative process.

PS – Yes, I asked AI to generate this image.