The increase of the monotonic convergence rate is an important issue for iterative Fourier-transform algorithms. However, the steepest monotonic convergence of the iterative Fourier-transform algorithm does not always promise an optimal solution in the design of a diffractive optical element. The optimal nonmonotonic convergence of the iterative Fourier-transform algorithm is investigated by employing a microgenetic algorithm. The proposed hybrid scheme of the iterative Fourier-transform algorithm and the microgenetic algorithm show nonmonotonic convergence, and this results in a superior design.