A Human Dimensions of Organizations (HDO) Webinar
Think brainstorming is always a good thing? Think again! Join our eye-opening webinar where we reveal the unexpected pitfalls of brainstorming in organizations. While it can be a fantastic way to generate creative ideas, it also comes with its own set of challenges. From the risk of groupthink, where a few voices dominate the conversation, to the tendency to latch onto a single idea and ignore others, brainstorming isn’t always as effective as it seems.
- In this webinar, you’ll uncover:
- The surprising downsides of traditional brainstorming sessions.
- Strategies to rethink the goals of brainstorming.
- How to recognize and avoid the traps of groupthink.
- Techniques to ensure a diverse range of ideas are explored.
Don’t miss this chance to learn how to navigate the perils of brainstorming and turn it into a truly powerful tool for your team!
About the Speakers
Dr. Art Markman is the Annabel Irion Worsham Centennial Professor for Psychology and Marketing and serves as Vice Provost for Academic Affairs at the University of Texas at Austin. He is the founding director of the Human Dimensions of Organizations (HDO) program and has published over 150 scholarly works on cognitive science, decision-making, and organizational behavior.
A recognized expert in his field, Dr. Markman is the author of several influential books, including Smart Thinking, Smart Change, and Bring Your Brain to Work, and his expertise has been featured in prominent publications such as Psychology Today, Fast Company, and the Harvard Business Review. In addition to his academic achievements, he is widely known as the co-host of the Two Guys on Your Head podcast, where he and colleague Bob Duke explore the intricacies of the human mind with insight and humor.
Dr. Tracy Wuster is an accomplished scholar in history, American Studies, and literature at The University of Texas at Austin since 2012. Since 2020, he has been a key part of the Human Dimensions of Organizations program, teaching courses on creativity, innovation, and organizational leadership. He contributes to UT’s Bridging Disciplines Programs in Innovation, Creativity, and Entrepreneurship, and Nonprofits and Social Entrepreneurship.
Previously, Professor Wuster taught American literature, humor, business writing, and public speaking in the department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, and he served as Executive Director of the American Humor Studies Association for nearly a decade. His book, Mark Twain, The American Humorist, explores Twain’s literary reputation and rise to fame.
May 13, 2025
Online*
10-11 a.m.
* You will need to have a Zoom account and be logged in to join the webinar. Visit https://zoom.us/ if you need to set up an account. The free, basic account will allow you to join the webinar.
About Human Dimensions of Organizations
The Human Dimensions of Organizations (HDO) program brings together UT Austin’s finest researchers and teachers in the humanities and the social and behavioral sciences with an interest in educating leaders (current and aspiring) about the ways these disciplines can improve organizations.
HDO offers one-day courses, four-day certificate programs, and a 15-month executive master’s degree examining how and why the key components of every organization — people — behave and work the way they do and why they sometimes don’t.
On-demand Info Session (Master’s Program)
On-demand Info Session (Professional Training)
Faculty, staff and alumni will join to share their perspectives and answer questions.
