Getting many people to think about a complex problem is often the best way to come up with a solution. But you have to take steps to make the collaboration efficient. When you invite others to contribute to a project, respect their time and show up prepared. Bring together the people who are closest to the problem. Be clear about who is coming and why, and spend time considering how you’re going to tackle a problem. In some situations, it may make sense to keep the conversation open-ended and brainstorm with team members by saying: “What do you think? What’s your perspective?” In other cases, it may be simpler to share your views and ask others to weigh in: “I value your input. Here’s what I’m thinking. What am I not taking into consideration or factoring in? What resonates, and what doesn’t?”
Adapted from "How Managers Can Make Group Projects More Efficient," by Amy Jen Su
