Dreaming up fresh, original, ground breaking ideas is tough. Yet some people create new ideas effortlessly, while others struggle.

Want to exercise your creative muscle? Take a look at this article to learn some of the techniques Google utilizes to encourage innovation within the company.

One example: “Creativity Loves Constraints,” says Google’s VP of Search Products. “People think of creativity as this sort of unbridled thing, but engineers thrive on constraints.”

So true. The most creative and prolific agency folks I’ve known are those that rely on a creative strategy or strategic roadmap to frame their creative efforts.

And briefs aren’t just for agencies, btw; every company needs guidelines to keep ideation on track.

If you have a minute, take a look. The article is a fast read and well worth your time if innovation is important to your business.