
The idea to option cycle is iterative and initially very rapid. Here is one example:
A. Association: Bringing creative translation and frameworks to the table helps overcome associative barriers
B. Idea: Defining the value proposition using proven frameworks
C. Exploration: Rapid visualisation of ideas help ourselves and our stakeholders to explore the boundaries of the idea
D. Validation: Narrowing our efforts on key ideas and principles and exposing these to different aspects
E. Definition: Tidying up and defining the core idea using prototypes and visualisations
F. Communication: Honing the message and exposing more high risk entities to our effort
The process is effectively an unfolding vortex where we initially go through stages A-F very rapidly, starting on paper, and then increasingly extend the cycle - every iteration exposing the idea to more high risk entities than before.

Until we end up with a cycle that ends with a communication phase ready for the market thus turning the the idea into a useful and profitable set of options.