In the sequence of steps, which item immediately follows brainstorming?

• A. Brainstorm
• B. Conduct research
• C. Consult other professionals
• D. Do whatever is necessary to make yourself the SME

Answer: (B)

After brainstorming, the next step is to conduct research. Brainstorming generates a wide range of ideas, but you need evidence, data, and existing knowledge to evaluate which ideas are viable, safe, and feasible. Research helps you validate assumptions, understand constraints, gather relevant facts, and identify potential risks or needed resources. This information base allows you to filter and refine ideas into a solid, evidence-based plan before moving forward.

Piling on more brainstorming without evaluating the ideas isn’t productive, and consulting other professionals can be helpful later when you need specific expertise or validation of ideas you’ve begun to test. Trying to become the subject-matter expert by forcing it isn’t a defined step in a structured process.