Are there some proven processes for successful innovation to avoid rambling, non-productive brainstorming?

Yes and no. Innovation is a new and changing applied science. Some techniques such as brainstorming, lateral thinking, skunk works and creativity exercises are useful.

None of these techniques fit every situation. An Active Innovation Management system is a personalized approach to applying practical innovation to your business on a continual basis. It is a mindset more than a rigid technique, so it can grow and change just like natural selection evolves in the world of nature.

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I cant really gove you an answer,but what I can give you is a way to a solution, that is you have to find the anglde that you relate to or peaks your interest. A good paper is one that people get drawn into because it reaches them ln some way.As for me WW11 to me, I think of the holocaust and the effect it had on the survivors, their families and those who stood by and did nothing until it was too late.