Ideation as thinking model

Design ideation, where 'idea' is understood as a basic element of thought could be perceived as a combination of first and second order, or level thinking. That is, from first thought that springs to mind ('surface level thinking') to thinking about the consequences of the idea ('deep level thinking'). Or, to use the analogy of a two-stage explorative rocket, from initial ignition, or spark of ideas, which is fast and has immediate impact, to a sustained effort to develop and effectively communicate the idea bringing the idea into orbit, so to speak, for further discussion and decision making (third level thinking) . The second stage would typically need more than one written sentence or a single rough sketch. Accordingly, the ubiquitous 'brain storming' session would be considered first order thinking whereas desgin ideation would entail second order thinking too. Or, to use another metaphor, from ideas surfing to ideas diving.