For years I have been a huge fan of whiteboards. I like keeping lists on whiteboards, I like drawing on whiteboards–whiteboards are hugely useful in explaining and understanding complex technical concepts, managing projects, and so on. Recently, I discovered that using thin-tipped markers lets me get even more done with the whiteboard in my office. My handwriting is poor at best and this does not translate well to brainstorming with a thick marker. However, in using thin markers, I’ve found that I am able to cram more onto the board, write neater, and generally get more out of the whiteboard. I think this is particularly applicable to small meeting rooms and offices where a whiteboard might be only 4×3 or 6×4 feet.
So next time you’re brainstorming on the whiteboard, try it with a few thin markers and see how it works for you.