Kathy Sierra posts a great idea for "Product Design". It's a dinner party to replace boring focus groups. I reckon the concept would work with any challenge that needs to be solved.

The idea is that once the first group of ideas are presented (in small groups) by their instigators, only ideas that others like will go forward. And from that point on, all ideas are pitched by people who didn't actually think them up!

Sounds strange, but I suggest you have a look because it could be a great way, not to say fun way, of getting buy-in as well as creative solutions.

Hat tip Michael