I'm not an academic guy, but I know some of you might  be interested in that approach. So I selected for you three academic papers that are focused on ideation. I've added below each paper title it's abstract as is in order  to be sure not to create confusion with a personal  interpretation of the findings.

Systematic methods for idea generation in engineering design have come about from a variety of sources. Do these methods really aid ideation? Some empirical studies have been conducted by researchers to answer this question. These studies include highly controlled lab experiments by cognitive psychologists, as well as experiments in simulated design environments carried out by engineering design theorists. A key factor in design and analysis of empirical studies is characterization and measurement of ideation effectiveness. This paper describes four objective measures of ideation effectiveness. The theoretical basis of each is discussed and procedures for application of each are outlined and illustrated with case studies.

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A laboratory experiment was used to evaluate the effects of anonymity and evaluative tone on computer-mediated groups using a group decision support system to perform an idea-generation task. Evaluative tone was manipulated through a confederate group member who entered supportive or critical comments into the automated brainstorming system. Groups working anonymously and with a critical confederate produced the greatest number of original solutions and overall comments, yet average solution quality per item and average solution rarity were not different across conditions. Identified groups working with a supportive confederate were the most satisfied and had the highest levels of perceived effectiveness, but produced the fewest original solutions and overall comments.

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A model called search for ideas in associative memory (SIAM) is proposed to account for various research findings in the area of group idea generation. The model assumes that idea generation is a repeated search for ideas in associative memory, which proceeds in 2 stages (knowledge activation and idea production), and is controlled through negative feedback loops and cognitive failures (trials in which no idea is generated). We show that (a) turn taking (production blocking) interferes with both stages of the process; (b) ideas suggested by others aid the activation of problem-relevant knowledge; and (c) cognitive failures are important determinants of brainstorming persistence, satisfaction, and enjoyment. Implications for group decision making and group recall are discussed.
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