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Your brain is a
miraculous, powerful, problem solver. But even the
best brain is often confounded by any of a myriad of
influences: over-familiarity with the issue, habit,
jumping to conclusions, fixing the wrong problem,
and being rushed to accept the first seemingly good
answer, to name a few. Following is a brief guide to
avoiding these constraints on your great mind.
When challenged by a sticky or
recurring problem engage in a creative problem
solving process. Disciplining yourself to a proven
process will frequently bring exciting results.
At each stage of the process
gather as much input as possible withholding
judgment on it. Then focus down to the most
applicable information.
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Creative Problem
Solving Process
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Analyze
the Problem
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Redefine the Problem
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Generate Ideas
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Select & Evaluate Ideas
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Implementation
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1. Analyze the Problem
Often, what appears to be a
problem is a symptom of a somewhat different problem
or is the wrong problem entirely. By analyzing the
problem, we become clear about what the current
situation is, and what the desired situation is.
Then the gap between the two can be identified and
worked on.
Do some good detective work
using basic questions; who, what, where, when, why,
how. Ask each question many times from different
perspectives.
2. Redefine the Problem
Define the problem in terms of
the current situation and the desired situation so
that the problem- the gap- is targeted for
solution.
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Questions are Your Friends
Who? What? Where?
When? Why? How?
What else? What if? |
3. Generate Ideas
Time to close the gap! Follow the
rules for classical brainstorming or use another
idea generation tool. Generate lots of ideas without
passing judgment. Often the best solution comes well
into the process, after it seems that all possible
ideas are exhausted.
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Classical Brainstorming
Two Principles
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Defer
judgment
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Quantity breeds quality
Four Rules
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4. Select and Evaluate Ideas
This is another area where the
process often breaks down. Before selecting and
evaluating ideas, decide on what criteria you will
base your determinations. Again, develop as
many possibilities as possible and then focus down
on a few criteria that make the most sense.
5. Implementation
Apply creative processes to
developing your plan of action. Be sure to build in
feedback so that you can adjust your plan for
optimum success.
Consider using a professional
facilitator
Frequently your problem solving
will be more effective if you retain a neutral
professional to facilitate your process. Redpath and
Associates is experienced in this process and our
only stake in the outcome is your success. We can
facilitate your creative problem solving sessions,
train your staff in creative problem solving, or
consult with you to assist in solving your problems.
©2003 Redpath & Associates, LLC
all rights reserved, reproduction without permission
prohibited
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