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Creative Problem Solving

Finding innovative solutions to challenges.

By the Mind Tools Content Team

Imagine that you're vacuuming your house in a hurry because you've got friends coming over. Frustratingly, you're working hard but you're not getting very far. You kneel down, open up the vacuum cleaner, and pull out the bag. In a cloud of dust, you realize that it's full... again. Coughing, you empty it and wonder why vacuum cleaners with bags still exist!

James Dyson, inventor and founder of Dyson® vacuum cleaners, had exactly the same problem, and he used creative problem solving to find the answer. While many companies focused on developing a better vacuum cleaner filter, he realized that he had to think differently and find a more creative solution. So, he devised a revolutionary way to separate the dirt from the air, and invented the world's first bagless vacuum cleaner. [1]

Creative problem solving (CPS) is a way of solving problems or identifying opportunities when conventional thinking has failed. It encourages you to find fresh perspectives and come up with innovative solutions, so that you can formulate a plan to overcome obstacles and reach your goals.

In this article, we'll explore what CPS is, and we'll look at its key principles. We'll also provide a model that you can use to generate creative solutions.

About Creative Problem Solving

Alex Osborn, founder of the Creative Education Foundation, first developed creative problem solving in the 1940s, along with the term "brainstorming." And, together with Sid Parnes, he developed the Osborn-Parnes Creative Problem Solving Process. Despite its age, this model remains a valuable approach to problem solving. [2]

The early Osborn-Parnes model inspired a number of other tools. One of these is the 2011 CPS Learner's Model, also from the Creative Education Foundation, developed by Dr Gerard J. Puccio, Marie Mance, and co-workers. In this article, we'll use this modern four-step model to explore how you can use CPS to generate innovative, effective solutions.

Why Use Creative Problem Solving?

Dealing with obstacles and challenges is a regular part of working life, and overcoming them isn't always easy. To improve your products, services, communications, and interpersonal skills, and for you and your organization to excel, you need to encourage creative thinking and find innovative solutions that work.

CPS asks you to separate your "divergent" and "convergent" thinking as a way to do this. Divergent thinking is the process of generating lots of potential solutions and possibilities, otherwise known as brainstorming. And convergent thinking involves evaluating those options and choosing the most promising one. Often, we use a combination of the two to develop new ideas or solutions. However, using them simultaneously can result in unbalanced or biased decisions, and can stifle idea generation.

For more on divergent and convergent thinking, and for a useful diagram, see the book "Facilitator's Guide to Participatory Decision-Making." [3]

Core Principles of Creative Problem Solving

CPS has four core principles. Let's explore each one in more detail:

• Divergent and convergent thinking must be balanced. The key to creativity is learning how to identify and balance divergent and convergent thinking (done separately), and knowing when to practice each one.
• Ask problems as questions. When you rephrase problems and challenges as open-ended questions with multiple possibilities, it's easier to come up with solutions. Asking these types of questions generates lots of rich information, while asking closed questions tends to elicit short answers, such as confirmations or disagreements. Problem statements tend to generate limited responses, or none at all.
• Defer or suspend judgment. As Alex Osborn learned from his work on brainstorming, judging solutions early on tends to shut down idea generation. Instead, there's an appropriate and necessary time to judge ideas during the convergence stage.
• Focus on "Yes, and," rather than "No, but." Language matters when you're generating information and ideas. "Yes, and" encourages people to expand their thoughts, which is necessary during certain stages of CPS. Using the word "but" – preceded by "yes" or "no" – ends conversation, and often negates what's come before it.

How to Use the Tool

Let's explore how you can use each of the four steps of the CPS Learner's Model (shown in figure 1, below) to generate innovative ideas and solutions.

Figure 1 – CPS Learner's Model

Explore the Vision

Identify your goal, desire or challenge. This is a crucial first step because it's easy to assume, incorrectly, that you know what the problem is. However, you may have missed something or have failed to understand the issue fully, and defining your objective can provide clarity. Read our article, 5 Whys , for more on getting to the root of a problem quickly.

Gather Data

Once you've identified and understood the problem, you can collect information about it and develop a clear understanding of it. Make a note of details such as who and what is involved, all the relevant facts, and everyone's feelings and opinions.

Formulate Questions

When you've increased your awareness of the challenge or problem you've identified, ask questions that will generate solutions. Think about the obstacles you might face and the opportunities they could present.

Explore Ideas

Generate ideas that answer the challenge questions you identified in step 1. It can be tempting to consider solutions that you've tried before, as our minds tend to return to habitual thinking patterns that stop us from producing new ideas. However, this is a chance to use your creativity .

Brainstorming and Mind Maps are great ways to explore ideas during this divergent stage of CPS. And our articles, Encouraging Team Creativity , Problem Solving , Rolestorming , Hurson's Productive Thinking Model , and The Four-Step Innovation Process , can also help boost your creativity.

See our Brainstorming resources within our Creativity section for more on this.

Formulate Solutions

This is the convergent stage of CPS, where you begin to focus on evaluating all of your possible options and come up with solutions. Analyze whether potential solutions meet your needs and criteria, and decide whether you can implement them successfully. Next, consider how you can strengthen them and determine which ones are the best "fit." Our articles, Critical Thinking and ORAPAPA , are useful here.

4. Implement

Formulate a plan.

Once you've chosen the best solution, it's time to develop a plan of action. Start by identifying resources and actions that will allow you to implement your chosen solution. Next, communicate your plan and make sure that everyone involved understands and accepts it.

There have been many adaptations of CPS since its inception, because nobody owns the idea.

For example, Scott Isaksen and Donald Treffinger formed The Creative Problem Solving Group Inc . and the Center for Creative Learning , and their model has evolved over many versions. Blair Miller, Jonathan Vehar and Roger L. Firestien also created their own version, and Dr Gerard J. Puccio, Mary C. Murdock, and Marie Mance developed CPS: The Thinking Skills Model. [4] Tim Hurson created The Productive Thinking Model , and Paul Reali developed CPS: Competencies Model. [5]

Sid Parnes continued to adapt the CPS model by adding concepts such as imagery and visualization , and he founded the Creative Studies Project to teach CPS. For more information on the evolution and development of the CPS process, see Creative Problem Solving Version 6.1 by Donald J. Treffinger, Scott G. Isaksen, and K. Brian Dorval. [6]

Creative Problem Solving (CPS) Infographic

See our infographic on Creative Problem Solving .

Creative problem solving (CPS) is a way of using your creativity to develop new ideas and solutions to problems. The process is based on separating divergent and convergent thinking styles, so that you can focus your mind on creating at the first stage, and then evaluating at the second stage.

There have been many adaptations of the original Osborn-Parnes model, but they all involve a clear structure of identifying the problem, generating new ideas, evaluating the options, and then formulating a plan for successful implementation.

[1] Entrepreneur (2012). James Dyson on Using Failure to Drive Success [online]. Available here . [Accessed May 27, 2022.]

[2] Creative Education Foundation (2015). The CPS Process [online]. Available here . [Accessed May 26, 2022.]

[3] Kaner, S. et al. (2014). 'Facilitator′s Guide to Participatory Decision–Making,' San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.

[4] Puccio, G., Mance, M., and Murdock, M. (2011). 'Creative Leadership: Skils That Drive Change' (2nd Ed.), Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.

[5] OmniSkills (2013). Creative Problem Solving [online]. Available here . [Accessed May 26, 2022].

[6] Treffinger, G., Isaksen, S., and Dorval, B. (2010). Creative Problem Solving (CPS Version 6.1). Center for Creative Learning, Inc. & Creative Problem Solving Group, Inc. Available here .

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4.1 Tools for Creativity and Innovation

Learning objectives.

By the end of this section, you will be able to:

• Describe popular, well-supported, creative problem-solving methods
• Understand which innovation or problem-solving methods apply best in different settings
• Know where to look for emerging innovation practices, research, and tools

Creativity, innovation, and invention are key concepts for your entrepreneurial journey. Fostering creativity and innovation will add essential tools to your entrepreneurial toolkit. In this chapter, first you’ll learn about a few practical tools that can assist you in your efforts to create and innovate. Then, we’ll define and distinguish creativity, innovation, and invention, and note the differences between pioneering and incremental innovation. Finally, we’ll cover models and processes for developing creativity, innovation, and inventiveness. The science, study, and practice of creativity and design thinking are constantly evolving. Staying on top of well-documented, successful approaches can give you a competitive advantage and may remind you that entrepreneurship can be fun, exciting, and refreshing, as long as you keep your creative spirit alive and in constant motion.

Creative Problem-Solving Methods

Creative thinking can take various forms ( Figure 4.2 ). This section focuses on a few creative thinking exercises that have proven useful for entrepreneurs. After discussing ideation practices that you can try, we conclude with a discussion of an in-depth innovation exercise that can help you develop a habit of turning creative ideas into innovative products and services. In this section, outcomes are vital.

Three ideation practices are discussed here. Several others are offered in links at the end of this section. The first ideation practice comes from Stanford’s Design School. 2 The objective is to generate as many ideas as possible and start to develop some of those ideas. This practice is the quintessential design thinking practice, or human-centric design thinking exercise, and it consists of five parts: accessing and expressing empathy, defining the problem, ideating solutions (brainstorming), prototyping, and testing ( Figure 4.3 ). Empathy is the human ability to feel what other humans are feeling, which in the context of creativity, innovation, and invention is essential to beginning a process of human-centric design. Practicing empathy enables us to relate to people and see the problem through the eyes and feelings of those who experience it. By expressing empathy, you can begin to understand many facets of a problem and start to think about all of the forces you will need to bring to bear on it. From empathy comes the ability to proceed to the second step, defining the problem. Defining the problem must be based on honest, rational, and emotional observation for human-centric design to work. Third in the process is brainstorming solutions. The other two ideation exercises or practices in this section delve more deeply into brainstorming (also discussed in Problem Solving and Need Recognition Techniques ), what it means, and how you can brainstorm creatively beyond the basic whiteboard scribbling in almost every organization. Designing for other people means building a prototype—the fourth step—and to test it. Once you apply this process to developing a product or service, you need to return to the empathetic mindset to examine whether you have reached a viable solution and, thus, an opportunity.

Link to Learning

Watch this video on human-centered design for more information, including an explanation of the phases involved.

To delve more deeply into ideation as a practice, we introduce here the Six Thinking Hats method ( Figure 4.4 ). 3 There are different versions of this ideation game, but all of them are quite useful for encouraging thought by limiting the mindset of those involved in the game. Being encouraged to embody one mode of thinking frees you from considering other aspects of a problem that can limit creativity when you are looking for a solution. The six hats are:

• White Hat: acts as information gatherer by conducting research and bringing quantitative analysis to the discussion; sticks to the facts
• Red Hat: brings raw emotion to the mix and offers sensibilities without having to justify them
• Black Hat: employs logic and caution; warns participants about institutional limitations; also known as the “devil’s advocate”
• Yellow Hat: brings the “logical positive” of optimism to the group; encourages solving small and large problems
• Green Hat: thinks creatively; introduces change and provokes other members when needed; new ideas are the purview of the Green Hat
• Blue Hat: maintains the broader structure of the discussion and may set the terms by which progress will be judged; makes sure the other hats play by the rules, or stay in their respective lanes, so to speak

You can apply the Six Thinking Hats exercise to force structure on a discussion where, without it, several members of the group might try to wear several hats each. This game is not always easy to implement. If members cannot follow the rules, the process breaks down. When it works best, the Blue Hat maintains control and keeps the practice moving quickly. What you and your group should experience is a peculiar freedom arising from the imposition of limitations. By being responsible for only one mode of thinking, each participant can fully advocate for that point of view and can think deeply about that particular aspect of the solution. Thus, the group can be deeply creative, deeply logical, deeply optimistic, and deeply critical. This practice is meant to move entire groups past surface-level solutions. If you practice this exercise well, the challenges of implementing it are well worth the effort. It gives you the opportunity to vet ideas thoroughly while keeping many personality clashes at bay. If the participants stay in character, they can be accused only of acting in the best interests of their hat.

Your instructor may have your group members try different hats in different ideation exercises so you all can more fully develop each mindset. 4 This exercise forces you out of your most comfortable modes of thinking. You and your classmates can recognize in each other skills that you may not have realized you possess.

The third ideation practice is quite simple. If stagnant thinking has begun to dominate an ongoing discussion, it can be helpful to inject an ideation framework. This is the “ statement starters ” method. 5 Ask, “How might we ________?” or “What if we ________?” in order to open up new possibilities when you seem to have reached the limits of creativity. This method is more than simply asking “Why not?” because it seeks to uncover how a problem might be solved. For entrepreneurs, the simplest form of framing a problem in the form of a question can be eye opening. It assumes open possibilities, invites participation, and demands focus. Statement starters assume that, at least, there might be a solution to every problem. Ideation is about starting down new paths. This mode of thought applies to social problems as well as consumer pain points (discussed later). Creating a list of statement starters can help entrepreneurs examine different possibilities by simply adopting different points of view when asking questions. For example, the question, “How might we keep rivers clean?” is similar to the question, “How might we prevent animal waste runoff from entering our city’s waterways?” but the implications of each question are different for different stakeholders. Recall that stakeholders are individuals who have a vital interest in the business or organization. Statement starters almost always lead to a discussion of stakeholders and how they might be involved in finding solutions, offering support, and perhaps one day purchasing or contributing to dynamic, disruptive inventions or changes in social practice.

Are you curious about ways to improve your ability to think creatively? Consider trying out some of the creative thinking exercises provided at this site.

Matching Innovation Methods to Circumstances

Searching for innovation methods will often reveal many of the same, or similar, creativity exercises as we’ve just discussed. To go beyond ideation exercises, we will conclude with a foundation of thinking that can help when you are tackling all sorts of innovation problems. Simply put, open innovation involves searching for and finding solutions outside of the organizational structure. Open innovation is somewhat difficult to pin down. The educator and author Henry Chesbrough was one of the first to define it: “Open innovation is ‘the use of purposive inflows and outflows of knowledge to accelerate internal innovation, and expand the markets for external use of innovation, respectively.’” 6 In other words, firms built on a structure of open innovation look beyond their own research and development capabilities to solve problems. This outlook can guide all sorts of product and service development processes. Open innovation models also allow innovations to be shared widely so that they can seed other innovations outside the original firm or institution.

Open innovation takes an optimistic view of sharing information and ideas across a society connected by instantaneous communication networks. It is also a shift from the classic research and development model. In a sense, you allow others to solve problems in your business, startup, or social entrepreneurship project. In this reciprocal world, you are open to the reality that information is difficult to keep under wraps. You may seek patents for your intellectual property, particularly in fixed product or service practice form, but you should expect, or even encourage, the widespread circulation of key elements of your solutions. This makes sense: If, as an entrepreneur or an innovative corporation, you are going to look beyond your own ideation, research, and development capabilities for solutions, you must expect that others will look to your solutions for ideas to borrow.

The open innovation model is far easier to describe in idealistic terms than it is to put into practice without ethical consequences. Unfortunately, industrial and corporate espionage, theft of intellectual property, and lawsuits are commonplace. Nevertheless, inspiration in innovation can come from myriad sources when constant streams of information are available to anyone with a high-speed data connection. Open innovation is a simple but essential framework for future innovation and for managing, even possibly guiding, disruption in an industry as discussed previously (i.e., disruptive innovation). Table 4.1 provides some examples of companies using disruptive technology.

Another element of the open innovation model is the connection between academic research and practical solutions. Reciprocal influence between academia, which often moves slowly, and leading corporate and entrepreneurial forces, which often focus too narrowly on short-term gains, could offer the balance this rapidly changing world needs. If you can manage to plug into the exchange of ideas between longstanding institutions and disruptive technological innovators, you may be positioned to effect positive change on society and to develop products that are received as useful and elegant, wildly new and creative, and essential to the human experience at the same time.

Staying on Top of Emerging Practices

Consider searching for ideation and innovation practice links using a web browser and comparing those results to what you can find in the academic literature via Google Scholar or other academic databases. To adopt a truly open innovation mindset, it is essential to leave yourself open to all sorts of influences, even if it demands time and much cognitive energy. The financial, social, and personal rewards may be great.

• 2 Stanford d.school. https://dschool.stanford.edu/
• 3 “10 Creative Techniques for You and Your Team.” MiroBlog . n.d. https://miro.com/blog/creative-techniques/
• 4 “Six Thinking Hats.” The de Bono Group . n.d. http://www.debonogroup.com/six_thinking_hats.php
• 5 Michelle Ferrier. “Ideation.” Media Innovation and Entrepreneurship . n.d. https://press.rebus.community/media-innovation-and-entrepreneurship/chapter/ideation-2/
• 6 Henry Chesbrough. “Everything You Need to Know about Open Innovation.” Forbes . March 21, 2011. https://www.forbes.com/sites/henrychesbrough/2011/03/21/everything-you-need-to-know-about-open-innovation/#1861dd5275f4

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How to Be a More Creative Problem-Solver at Work: 8 Tips

• 01 Mar 2022

The importance of creativity in the workplace—particularly when problem-solving—is undeniable. Business leaders can’t approach new problems with old solutions and expect the same result.

This is where innovation-based processes need to guide problem-solving. Here’s an overview of what creative problem-solving is, along with tips on how to use it in conjunction with design thinking.

Access your free e-book today.

What Is Creative Problem-Solving?

Encountering problems with no clear cause can be frustrating. This occurs when there’s disagreement around a defined problem or research yields unclear results. In such situations, creative problem-solving helps develop solutions, despite a lack of clarity.

While creative problem-solving is less structured than other forms of innovation, it encourages exploring open-ended ideas and shifting perspectives—thereby fostering innovation and easier adaptation in the workplace. It also works best when paired with other innovation-based processes, such as design thinking .

Creative Problem-Solving and Design Thinking

Design thinking is a solutions-based mentality that encourages innovation and problem-solving. It’s guided by an iterative process that Harvard Business School Dean Srikant Datar outlines in four stages in the online course Design Thinking and Innovation :

• Clarify: This stage involves researching a problem through empathic observation and insights.
• Ideate: This stage focuses on generating ideas and asking open-ended questions based on observations made during the clarification stage.
• Develop: The development stage involves exploring possible solutions based on the ideas you generate. Experimentation and prototyping are both encouraged.
• Implement: The final stage is a culmination of the previous three. It involves finalizing a solution’s development and communicating its value to stakeholders.

Although user research is an essential first step in the design thinking process, there are times when it can’t identify a problem’s root cause. Creative problem-solving addresses this challenge by promoting the development of new perspectives.

Leveraging tools like design thinking and creativity at work can further your problem-solving abilities. Here are eight tips for doing so.

8 Creative Problem-Solving Tips

1. empathize with your audience.

A fundamental practice of design thinking’s clarify stage is empathy. Understanding your target audience can help you find creative and relevant solutions for their pain points through observing them and asking questions.

Practice empathy by paying attention to others’ needs and avoiding personal comparisons. The more you understand your audience, the more effective your solutions will be.

2. Reframe Problems as Questions

If a problem is difficult to define, reframe it as a question rather than a statement. For example, instead of saying, "The problem is," try framing around a question like, "How might we?" Think creatively by shifting your focus from the problem to potential solutions.

Consider this hypothetical case study: You’re the owner of a local coffee shop trying to fill your tip jar. Approaching the situation with a problem-focused mindset frames this as: "We need to find a way to get customers to tip more." If you reframe this as a question, however, you can explore: "How might we make it easier for customers to tip?" When you shift your focus from the shop to the customer, you empathize with your audience. You can take this train of thought one step further and consider questions such as: "How might we provide a tipping method for customers who don't carry cash?"

Whether you work at a coffee shop, a startup, or a Fortune 500 company, reframing can help surface creative solutions to problems that are difficult to define.

3. Defer Judgment of Ideas

If you encounter an idea that seems outlandish or unreasonable, a natural response would be to reject it. This instant judgment impedes creativity. Even if ideas seem implausible, they can play a huge part in ideation. It's important to permit the exploration of original ideas.

While judgment can be perceived as negative, it’s crucial to avoid accepting ideas too quickly. If you love an idea, don’t immediately pursue it. Give equal consideration to each proposal and build on different concepts instead of acting on them immediately.

4. Overcome Cognitive Fixedness

Cognitive fixedness is a state of mind that prevents you from recognizing a situation’s alternative solutions or interpretations instead of considering every situation through the lens of past experiences.

Although it's efficient in the short-term, cognitive fixedness interferes with creative thinking because it prevents you from approaching situations unbiased. It's important to be aware of this tendency so you can avoid it.

5. Balance Divergent and Convergent Thinking

One of the key principles of creative problem-solving is the balance of divergent and convergent thinking. Divergent thinking is the process of brainstorming multiple ideas without limitation; open-ended creativity is encouraged. It’s an effective tool for generating ideas, but not every idea can be explored. Divergent thinking eventually needs to be grounded in reality.

Convergent thinking, on the other hand, is the process of narrowing ideas down into a few options. While converging ideas too quickly stifles creativity, it’s an important step that bridges the gap between ideation and development. It's important to strike a healthy balance between both to allow for the ideation and exploration of creative ideas.

6. Use Creative Tools

Using creative tools is another way to foster innovation. Without a clear cause for a problem, such tools can help you avoid cognitive fixedness and abrupt decision-making. Here are several examples:

Problem Stories

Creating a problem story requires identifying undesired phenomena (UDP) and taking note of events that precede and result from them. The goal is to reframe the situations to visualize their cause and effect.

To start, identify a UDP. Then, discover what events led to it. Observe and ask questions of your consumer base to determine the UDP’s cause.

Next, identify why the UDP is a problem. What effect does the UDP have that necessitates changing the status quo? It's helpful to visualize each event in boxes adjacent to one another when answering such questions.

The problem story can be extended in either direction, as long as there are additional cause-and-effect relationships. Once complete, focus on breaking the chains connecting two subsequent events by disrupting the cause-and-effect relationship between them.

Alternate Worlds

The alternate worlds tool encourages you to consider how people from different backgrounds would approach similar situations. For instance, how would someone in hospitality versus manufacturing approach the same problem? This tool isn't intended to instantly solve problems but, rather, to encourage idea generation and creativity.

7. Use Positive Language

It's vital to maintain a positive mindset when problem-solving and avoid negative words that interfere with creativity. Positive language prevents quick judgments and overcomes cognitive fixedness. Instead of "no, but," use words like "yes, and."

Positive language makes others feel heard and valued rather than shut down. This practice doesn’t necessitate agreeing with every idea but instead approaching each from a positive perspective.

Using “yes, and” as a tool for further idea exploration is also effective. If someone presents an idea, build upon it using “yes, and.” What additional features could improve it? How could it benefit consumers beyond its intended purpose?

While it may not seem essential, this small adjustment can make a big difference in encouraging creativity.

8. Practice Design Thinking

Practicing design thinking can make you a more creative problem-solver. While commonly associated with the workplace, adopting a design thinking mentality can also improve your everyday life. Here are several ways you can practice design thinking:

• Learn from others: There are many examples of design thinking in business . Review case studies to learn from others’ successes, research problems companies haven't addressed, and consider alternative solutions using the design thinking process.
• Approach everyday problems with a design thinking mentality: One of the best ways to practice design thinking is to apply it to your daily life. Approach everyday problems using design thinking’s four-stage framework to uncover what solutions it yields.
• Study design thinking: While learning design thinking independently is a great place to start, taking an online course can offer more insight and practical experience. The right course can teach you important skills , increase your marketability, and provide valuable networking opportunities.

Ready to Become a Creative Problem-Solver?

Though creativity comes naturally to some, it's an acquired skill for many. Regardless of which category you're in, improving your ability to innovate is a valuable endeavor. Whether you want to bolster your creativity or expand your professional skill set, taking an innovation-based course can enhance your problem-solving.

If you're ready to become a more creative problem-solver, explore Design Thinking and Innovation , one of our online entrepreneurship and innovation courses . If you aren't sure which course is the right fit, download our free course flowchart to determine which best aligns with your goals.

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Introduction

We understand the importance of creative problem-solving in today’s fast-paced and competitive world. In this article, we will present you with 10 effective strategies that can help you overcome challenges and find innovative solutions to complex problems. By implementing these techniques, you will not only enhance your problem-solving skills but also gain a competitive edge in your professional and personal endeavors.

1. Embrace a Growth Mindset

To excel in creative problem solving, it is crucial to adopt a growth mindset. Embrace the belief that your abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work. By doing so, you will approach challenges with enthusiasm and resilience, viewing them as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles.

2. Encourage Diverse Perspectives

When tackling a problem, seek input from individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and expertise. By incorporating different perspectives, you can gain a broader understanding of the issue at hand and identify unique solutions. Foster an inclusive and collaborative environment that values and encourages diverse opinions.

3. Practice Active Listening

Active listening is a fundamental skill that contributes to effective problem-solving. When engaging in discussions or brainstorming sessions, give your undivided attention to others, demonstrate empathy, and ask thoughtful questions. This approach allows you to grasp different viewpoints, identify underlying concerns, and develop innovative solutions collaboratively.

4. Utilize Design Thinking

Design thinking is a human-centered approach that can greatly enhance your problem-solving abilities. It involves understanding the needs of the end-users, generating multiple ideas, prototyping, and iterating until an optimal solution is reached. By employing this iterative process, you can uncover innovative and user-centric solutions to complex problems.

5. Apply Root Cause Analysis

When confronted with a problem, it is essential to identify its root causes rather than solely addressing the symptoms. Conduct a thorough analysis to determine the underlying factors contributing to the issue. By addressing the root causes, you can develop comprehensive solutions that prevent the problem from recurring in the future.

6. Foster a Culture of Innovation

Creating a culture that encourages and rewards innovation is vital for sustained problem-solving success. Establish an environment where creativity is nurtured, risks are embraced, and ideas are celebrated. Encourage employees to think outside the box, experiment with new approaches, and share their insights openly.

7. Break Problems into Smaller Tasks

Large problems can often be overwhelming and difficult to tackle. Break them down into smaller, more manageable tasks. By dividing the problem into bite-sized pieces, you can approach each component systematically, focus your efforts effectively, and make steady progress towards a solution.

8. Use Visualization Techniques

Visualization techniques can be powerful tools for stimulating creative problem-solving. Whether through mind mapping, flowcharts, or diagrams, visually representing the problem and potential solutions can help you organize your thoughts, identify patterns, and uncover new perspectives.

9. Embrace Experimentation and Iteration

Recognize that creative problem-solving is an iterative process. Embrace experimentation and embrace a willingness to learn from failures. Test out different solutions, gather feedback, and refine your approach based on the results. Through this iterative cycle, you can refine and optimize your problem-solving strategies.

10. Continuous Learning and Improvement

Finally, never stop learning. Stay updated with the latest industry trends, technologies, and problem-solving methodologies. Attend workshops, seminars, and training programs to enhance your skills continually. By investing in your professional development, you will remain at the forefront of creative problem-solving and consistently outperform your competition.

By implementing these 10 effective strategies for creative problem-solving, you can unlock your full potential and gain a competitive advantage. Embrace a growth mindset, encourage diverse perspectives, and practice active listening. Utilize design thinking, apply root cause analysis, and foster a culture of innovation. Break problems into smaller tasks, use visualization techniques, and embrace experimentation. Lastly, never stop learning and strive for continuous improvement. With these approaches, you will consistently find innovative solutions that propel you ahead in the dynamic and challenging landscape of problem-solving.

Remember, at We are dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations with the tools and knowledge they need to excel in creative problem-solving. Embrace these strategies, adapt them to your unique circumstances, and witness the transformative impact they can have on your problem-solving abilities.

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9 Creative Problem Solving Tools For Your Next Breakthrough Idea

This is a suite of 9 creative problem solving tools from Erik op ten Berg. He’s an expert in creative thinking or applying creativity from the Netherlands.

He’s been working in this field for 25 years and has a Master of Science from Buffalo State University in New York.

His creative problem solving process takes a challenge and finds ideas that are new, useful and meaningful. I guarantee you this process will help you mobilise your group’s creative thinking skills.

You and your group will find original ideas which are always there. This helps you get to the holy grail of breakthrough thinking and quite possibly the ‘next big thing’.

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Interview with Erik op ten Berg

Watch this video to see Erik describe in detail how each tool / activity works with examples.

Please note that the video and audio quality is a little shaky in places. Sorry about that! We had some technical issues with Skype that were difficult to overcome.

Four Stages of Creative Problem Solving

The first two stages help you and your group ‘explore ideas’. The third stage helps you select the best ideas and the fourth tests the feasibility of your best ideas.

These are the four stages you need to go through (no skipping a stage please):

• Idea generation
• Idea expansion
• Idea selection
• Idea feasibility

Always start with the ABC Avalanche and then use 1 or 2 of the next 5 tools to expand the list of possible solutions.

1. ABC Avalanche (3:55sec on video)

A very basic brainstorming technique but extremely powerful.

This tool asks people to generate at least 26 ideas for a specific challenge sorting them by their first letters. It takes about 10-15 minutes.

• Write down the central question.
• Write down the letters of the alphabet.
• Generate many ideas sorting them by their first letters.
• Complete the alphabet.

Because participants focus on generating a specific number of ideas they postpone their judgments.

These attitudes are core to creative problem solving:

• Generating many alternative ideas.
• Postponing judgments.
• Moving past the first few (obvious) ideas.

Depending on the number of people in the session you can split into sub-groups. Feel free to build in a little competition between the groups if you like.

From this stage you have at least 26 starting ideas and people won’t have jumped into judging whether they are good ideas or not.

2. Breaking Assumptions (7:38min on video)

This is a second stage to an ABC Avalanche.

One of the very classical thinking techniques because to be truly creative you need to break patterns.

Once you’re aware of a pattern or an assumption in your idea generation so far you can deliberately break this assumption and new ideas will come forward and present themselves.

• List 5 assumptions present in the question or in the list of ideas.
• Take the opposite of each assumption.
• Imagine new solutions that run opposite to the initial assumptions.
• Add these to your list of ideas.

You ask the group to identify any patterns or assumptions that are built into either the challenge or list of ideas they’ve generated so far.

Then you ask them to take the opposite view (i.e. break that assumption) and come up with any new solutions and add them to your list of ideas.

3. Association Flower (11:13min on video)

Also a second stage technique after ABC Avalanche giving you and your group extra ‘access points’ from which to consider the challenge and generate more ideas.

This technique will generate a long list of associated keywords that can be used to generate even more ideas related to the original challenge.

• Write down a keyword about the challenge in the centre of the flower and four words that are associated with the keyword around it (see template on next page).
• Write around this keyword four associations.
• Then follow each of the 4 words in turn up its branch writing associated keywords as you go.
• Then use all these words to think in a new way about your challenge and generate even more ideas.
• Make the list of ideas as large as possible.

4. Visual Connections (15:33min on video)

Another way to create new ‘access points’ from which to generate new ideas.

• Focus on an interesting object, picture or an article in a newspaper.
• Write down your thoughts, reactions, impressions and observations.
• Make connections to the central topic and write these down as new ideas.
• Repeat this several times and expand your list of ideas.

You could bring a deck of pictures with you, or a set of magazines, or even ask the participants to bring their own magazines so they’re an integral part of the process.

5. SCAMPER (18:31min on video)

Use the 8 words from the acronym to approach the challenge from a different angle and generate a larger list of creative ideas.

SCAMPER is the summary of 72 questions used by Alex Osborn who is the man that founded the concept of brainstorming in the early 40s.

• SUBSTITUTE: parts, the whole, material…
• COMBINE: functions, material, just different…
• ADAPT: other color, place, use, form, timing…
• MAXIMIZE: bigger, stronger, longer, more time, macro level, use more often…
• MINIMIZE: smaller, lighter, shorter, micro level, less important…
• PUT TO OTHER USES: other context…
• ELIMINATE: parts, functions, material…
• REVERSE: sequence, upside down, inside out…

There’s no need to do all these words. Let them go wherever they want to go to create more productive access points to tackle the original challenge.

6. Analogy with nature (22:32min on video)

Sometimes people are using this technique as biomimicry .

Your question to the group: what kind of animals are you thinking about when you use your imagination?

Get them to list lots of animals quickly and ask them to select one. What is it that makes this an extraordinary animal?

Once you have that list of characteristics about the animal use those words as access points to generate more ideas about the challenge. What you’re doing here is using the beauty of nature and bringing that connection back to the challenge.

• List several names of animals.
• Choose a special animal with no link to the problem.
• List 10 characteristics about this animal.
• Use each characteristic as a stimulus for new ideas.
• Make a force-to-fit to the problem and boost your list of ideas.

Next step is to select ideas through a process of prioritization that you want to go deeper into and do further work on to develop them further.

7. Selecting ideas & COCD Box (24:37min on video)

Using a combination of dots (or hits as Erik calls them) and his COCD box you’re looking to boil down your grand list of ideas down to about 15 really good ones (5 in each color – blue, red and yellow).

• 5-15 IDEAS: everybody selects his or her 1-3 favorite hits; make out of these a top 3.
• 15-40 IDEAS: 5 sparkling ideas per person; focus on these and define an overall top 5 using dots or hits.
• >40 IDEAS: select individually 5-8 blue-red-yellow ideas (COCD-box); define the BIG 5 in each color.

Once you have 5 good ideas in each of the coloured boxes look for themes across them to try and boil everything down to a Top 5 by making some smart combinations.

If you’re looking for breakthrough ideas (and most often you will be) the ideas in the red box will be the ones you want to focus on in the next stage.

8. Concepting (30:07min on video)

What you’re looking to do now is enrich your ideas into concepts. You do this by combining your headline ideas with other ideas that are closely related from your overall list.

Take each red idea in turn and see if you can bundle in other ideas from the grand list.

• Focus on the selected ideas.
• Take one idea and add on different ideas (with and without dots) from the idea list, to enrich the original idea.
• Do this for all the selected ideas.
• Give the enriched ideas an attractive title.
• Go on with these results.

Then give the enriched ideas a more attractive title.

9. PPCO (33:38min on video)

This is one of Erik’s little gems he got out of his Master of Science in Buffalo.

At this stage you’re looking to expand and test your best ideas or concepts for feasibility.

• Pluses : what is good, positive about the idea.
• Potentials : what are the possibilities if the idea were pursued.
• Concerns : phrase shortcomings or limitations of the idea as questions.
• Overcomes : generate ideas to overcome the ‘burning’ concerns.

PPCO is like a SWOT analysis but in a more positive end. A moving towards approach instead of getting away approach. Facing truth and reality in a way of opportunities.

Pluses : Let’s see why we should do this idea. Potentials : What are the extra potentials of this idea that you haven’t considered before? These are extra or super pluses. Concerns : ‘how can I overcome (insert negative point here) …” Overcomes : your last stage of creative thinking where you’re generating answers of how to overcome your concerns.

You end with a triple positive state with very realistic backgrounds. That’s the kind of creativity you need when you have a good idea and you want to move it further whilst trying to taste a bit of the potential of it.

Creative problem solving is a process that, if you have the right tools and activities at hand, you can consistently achieve fantastic results from.

For your session to be a success you need to make sure you move past the first few obvious ideas, you generate tonnes of alternatives and that you postpone judgment on the quality of each idea until the appropriate moment.

How does your experience stack up? Do you have any secrets you’d like to share in the comments below?

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About the Author

Erik op ten Berg (1963) holds a Master of Science Degree in Creativity and Change Leadership, and is educated in Innovation Management at Delft Technical University in The Netherlands. He is a well-known trainer in Creative Problem Solving, and moderator of hundreds of change focused brainstorm workshops. Besides his own company Pioen consult he is also partner at the “Center for the Development of Creative Thinking” (COCD) in Belgium.

Thanks great would like to communicate with Erik Op Ten Berg

dear Rakesh! send me an email at [email protected] ; I will appologize for the delays in my answer because of some Summer holiday trips until August 22…

Thanks for sharing all these ideas. Very interesting and it generates a lots of ideas. One of them is the potential use of istock or getty image platform to search visuals using key words for Visual connections exercises. Wonder if you have try something like this in the past.

Great idea Dany. You need to be careful of potential copyright infringements obviously but there are loads of free stock image repositories out there too you can use in the way you suggest.

hi Dany! visual connections are an “easy way” to create access to thoughts that didn’t came up before; you can do this offline and also online; my experience with group thinking is better with offline pictures then online; bur for individual practice the online inspiration can be very productive and provocative; I wish you lots of creative detours in your own thinking; best wishes, Erik op ten Berg

Very educative, very informative, very useful for a trainer/coach. Thanks for great help to trainer community. World owes you a lot.

excellent approach

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What is creative problem-solving?

Table of Contents

An introduction to creative problem-solving.

Creative problem-solving is an essential skill that goes beyond basic brainstorming . It entails a holistic approach to challenges, melding logical processes with imaginative techniques to conceive innovative solutions. As our world becomes increasingly complex and interconnected, the ability to think creatively and solve problems with fresh perspectives becomes invaluable for individuals, businesses, and communities alike.

Importance of divergent and convergent thinking

At the heart of creative problem-solving lies the balance between divergent and convergent thinking. Divergent thinking encourages free-flowing, unrestricted ideation, leading to a plethora of potential solutions. Convergent thinking, on the other hand, is about narrowing down those options to find the most viable solution. This dual approach ensures both breadth and depth in the problem-solving process.

Emphasis on collaboration and diverse perspectives

No single perspective has a monopoly on insight. Collaborating with individuals from different backgrounds, experiences, and areas of expertise offers a richer tapestry of ideas. Embracing diverse perspectives not only broadens the pool of solutions but also ensures more holistic and well-rounded outcomes.

Nurturing a risk-taking and experimental mindset

The fear of failure can be the most significant barrier to any undertaking. It's essential to foster an environment where risk-taking and experimentation are celebrated. This involves viewing failures not as setbacks but as invaluable learning experiences that pave the way for eventual success.

The role of intuition and lateral thinking

Sometimes, the path to a solution is not linear. Lateral thinking and intuition allow for making connections between seemingly unrelated elements. These 'eureka' moments often lead to breakthrough solutions that conventional methods might overlook.

Stages of the creative problem-solving process

The creative problem-solving process is typically broken down into several stages. Each stage plays a crucial role in understanding, addressing, and resolving challenges in innovative ways.

Clarifying: Understanding the real problem or challenge

Before diving into solutions, one must first understand the problem at its core. This involves asking probing questions, gathering data, and viewing the challenge from various angles. A clear comprehension of the problem ensures that effort and resources are channeled correctly.

Ideating: Generating diverse and multiple solutions

Once the problem is clarified, the focus shifts to generating as many solutions as possible. This stage champions quantity over quality, as the aim is to explore the breadth of possibilities without immediately passing judgment.

Developing: Refining and honing promising solutions

With a list of potential solutions in hand, it's time to refine and develop the most promising ones. This involves evaluating each idea's feasibility, potential impact, and any associated risks, then enhancing or combining solutions to maximize effectiveness.

Implementing: Acting on the best solutions

Once a solution has been honed, it's time to put it into action. This involves planning, allocating resources, and monitoring the results to ensure the solution is effectively addressing the problem.

Techniques for creative problem-solving

Solving complex problems in a fresh way can be a daunting task to start on. Here are a few techniques that can help kickstart the process:

Brainstorming

Brainstorming is a widely-used technique that involves generating as many ideas as possible within a set timeframe. Variants like brainwriting (where ideas are written down rather than spoken) and reverse brainstorming (thinking of ways to cause the problem) can offer fresh perspectives and ensure broader participation.

Mind mapping

Mind mapping is a visual tool that helps structure information, making connections between disparate pieces of data. It is particularly useful in organizing thoughts, visualizing relationships, and ensuring a comprehensive approach to a problem.

SCAMPER technique

SCAMPER stands for Substitute, Combine, Adapt, Modify, Put to another use, Eliminate, and Reverse. This technique prompts individuals to look at existing products, services, or processes in new ways, leading to innovative solutions.

Benefits of creative problem-solving

Creative problem-solving offers numerous benefits, both at the individual and organizational levels. Some of the most prominent advantages include:

Finding novel solutions to old problems

Traditional problems that have resisted conventional solutions often succumb to creative approaches. By looking at challenges from fresh angles and blending different techniques, we can unlock novel solutions previously deemed impossible.

Enhanced adaptability in changing environments

In our rapidly evolving world, the ability to adapt is critical. Creative problem-solving equips individuals and organizations with the agility to pivot and adapt to changing circumstances, ensuring resilience and longevity.

Building collaborative and innovative teams

Teams that embrace creative problem-solving tend to be more collaborative and innovative. They value diversity of thought, are open to experimentation, and are more likely to challenge the status quo, leading to groundbreaking results.

Fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement

Creative problem-solving is not just about finding solutions; it's also about continuous learning and improvement. By encouraging an environment of curiosity and exploration, organizations can ensure that they are always at the cutting edge, ready to tackle future challenges head-on.

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• Brainstorming Tools
• Visual Tools for Brainstorming
• Brainstorming Content Ideas
• Brainstorming in Business
• Brainstorming Questions
• Brainstorming Rules
• Brainstorming Techniques
• Brainstorming Workshop
• Design Thinking and Brainstorming
• Divergent vs Convergent Thinking
• Group Brainstorming Strategies
• Group Creativity
• How to Make Virtual Brainstorming Fun and Effective
• Ideation Techniques
• Improving Brainstorming
• Marketing Brainstorming
• Rapid Brainstorming
• Reverse Brainstorming Challenges
• Reverse vs. Traditional Brainstorming
• What Comes After Brainstorming
• Flowchart Guide
• Spider Diagram Guide
• 5 Whys Template
• Assumption Grid Template
• Brainstorming Templates
• Brainwriting Template
• Innovation Techniques
• 50 Business Diagrams
• Business Model Canvas
• Change Control Process
• Change Management Process
• NOISE Analysis
• Profit & Loss Templates
• Scenario Planning
• Winning Brand Strategy
• Work Management Systems
• Developing Action Plans
• How to Write a Memo
• Improve Productivity & Efficiency
• Mastering Task Batching
• Monthly Budget Templates
• Top Down Vs. Bottom Up
• Weekly Schedule Templates
• Kaizen Principles
• Opportunity Mapping
• Strategic-Goals
• Strategy Mapping
• T Chart Guide
• Business Continuity Plan
• Developing Your MVP
• Incident Management
• Needs Assessment Process
• Product Development From Ideation to Launch
• Visualizing Competitive Landscape
• Communication Plan
• Graphic Organizer Creator
• Fault Tree Software
• Bowman's Strategy Clock Template
• Decision Matrix Template
• Communities of Practice
• Goal Setting for 2024
• Meeting Templates
• Meetings Participation
• Microsoft Teams Brainstorming
• Retrospective Guide
• Skip Level Meetings
• Visual Documentation Guide
• Weekly Meetings
• Affinity Diagrams
• Business Plan Presentation
• Post-Mortem Meetings
• Team Building Activities
• WBS Templates
• Online Whiteboard Tool
• Communications Plan Template
• Idea Board Online
• Meeting Minutes Template
• Genograms in Social Work Practice
• How to Conduct a Genogram Interview
• How to Make a Genogram
• Genogram Questions
• Genograms in Client Counseling
• Understanding Ecomaps
• Visual Research Data Analysis Methods
• House of Quality Template
• Customer Problem Statement Template
• Competitive Analysis Template
• Creating Operations Manual
• Knowledge Base
• Folder Structure Diagram
• Online Checklist Maker
• Lean Canvas Template
• Instructional Design Examples
• Genogram Maker
• Work From Home Guide
• Strategic Planning
• Employee Engagement Action Plan
• Huddle Board
• One-on-One Meeting Template
• Story Map Graphic Organizers
• Introduction to Your Workspace
• Managing Workspaces and Folders
• Adding Text
• Collaborative Content Management
• Creating and Editing Tables
• Adding Notes
• Introduction to Diagramming
• Using Shapes
• Using Freehand Tool
• Adding Images to the Canvas
• Accessing the Contextual Toolbar
• Using Connectors
• Working with Tables
• Working with Templates
• Working with Frames
• Using Notes
• Access Controls
• Exporting a Workspace
• Real-Time Collaboration
• Notifications
• Meet Creately VIZ
• Unleashing the Power of Collaborative Brainstorming
• Uncovering the potential of Retros for all teams
• Collaborative Apps in Microsoft Teams
• Hiring a Great Fit for Your Team
• Project Management Made Easy
• Cross-Corporate Information Radiators
• Creately 4.0 - Product Walkthrough
• What's New

The Brainstorming Guide

Introduction to Brainstorming

Have you ever encountered a challenge that felt impossible to overcome, dreamt of starting a business from the ground up, wanted to create a solid plan, launch a product, or hoped to write a memorable story? And the good news is that within you, right now, lies the key to unlocking solutions, innovations, and narratives that can transcend boundaries.

Your secret weapon? Brainstorming.

Brainstorming can help you solve problems, start businesses, make plans, or create stories successfully. But here’s the issue: many people don’t know how to brainstorm effectively, whether they’re doing it alone or with others.

Sometimes, people waste a lot of time thinking of repeated and uninteresting ideas that won’t actually work. They believe they’re brainstorming, but they’re not doing it effectively.

What if you could learn the best way to brainstorm and start coming up with really powerful and profitable ideas quickly?

Keep reading to find out how to make the most of brainstorming.

Definition of Brainstorming

We’ll start off with the basics.

Brainstorming is a creative problem-solving technique that involves generating a large number of ideas or solutions to a particular issue or challenge.

It typically takes place in a group setting, although it can also be done individually. The primary goal of brainstorming is to encourage free thinking and idea generation without immediate criticism or evaluation.

Brainstorming is a valuable tool for generating creative solutions, fostering teamwork, and encouraging innovative thinking. It can be applied to a wide range of contexts, from business strategy and product development to creative writing and problem-solving in everyday life.

Brief History of Brainstorming

If you are interested in learning how brainstorming came to be, here’s a brief history of brainstorming.

Brainstorming was first developed by advertising executive Alex Osborn in the late 1930s. Osborn was seeking ways to improve the creative thinking and idea generation process within his advertising agency, and he formalized the brainstorming method in his book titled “Applied Imagination” in 1953.

Origins in Advertising

Alex Osborn coined the term “brainstorming” to describe a structured approach to idea generation. He believed that traditional meetings often stifled creativity, so he introduced brainstorming as a way to encourage free thinking and open collaboration.

Modern Approaches

In response to some of the limitations of traditional brainstorming, modern variations and techniques have emerged. These include techniques such as mind mapping , brainwriting , and online brainstorming tools , which aim to boost creativity and idea generation in different ways.

Four Rules of Brainstorming

Osborn also established four fundamental rules to guide effective brainstorming sessions. These rules are designed to pave the way for a creative and open-minded atmosphere favorable for idea generation. The four rules of brainstorming are:

• No criticism: During a brainstorming session, participants are explicitly instructed to withhold criticism, judgment, or negative feedback of any kind. The aim is to create a safe and non-threatening environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing their ideas, no matter how unconventional or seemingly impractical they may be.
• Quantity over quality: Participants are encouraged to generate as many ideas as possible within the allotted time frame. The emphasis is on quantity rather than quality in the initial stages of brainstorming. This rule encourages participants to think freely and prevents them from censoring themselves or holding back potentially valuable ideas.
• Build on ideas: Brainstorming sessions thrive on collaboration and the interplay of ideas. Participants are encouraged to build on one another’s suggestions. This means that when someone presents an idea, others should try to expand, modify, or combine it with their own contributions to create new and improved concepts.
• Encourage wild ideas: “Wild” or unconventional ideas are actively welcomed and encouraged in brainstorming. These unusual or seemingly far-fetched ideas can often serve as catalysts for innovative thinking. They may inspire more practical solutions or lead to unique insights.

What are the Benefits of Brainstorming?

Brainstorming offers a range of benefits in various personal, professional, and creative contexts. Some of the key advantages of brainstorming include:

• Idea generation : Brainstorming is a structured approach to generating a large number of ideas in a relatively short time. This is especially valuable when you need creative solutions, innovative concepts, or fresh perspectives.
• Promote creativity : It promotes creative thinking by encouraging participants to think outside the box, explore unconventional ideas, and break free from mental constraints and self-censorship.
• Explore multiple perspectives : Brainstorming sessions often involve multiple participants with different backgrounds, expertise, and viewpoints. This diversity can lead to a broader range of ideas and solutions.
• Foster collaboration : Brainstorming sessions often involve group participation, fostering collaboration and teamwork. Participants can build on each other’s ideas, leading to the development of more refined concepts.
• Identify effective solutions: It is an effective tool for problem-solving. Brainstorming can help identify potential solutions to challenges, enabling better decision-making.
• Inspire innovation : Brainstorming often leads to the generation of innovative and novel ideas, which can be valuable in fields such as product development, marketing, and research.
• Effective meetings : When conducted efficiently, brainstorming can lead to more productive and focused meetings, reducing the likelihood of unproductive discussions and tangents.
• Time efficiency : Brainstorming can lead to quicker problem-solving and idea generation compared to individual or unstructured approaches.
• Adaptability : It can be applied to a wide range of situations, from brainstorming in business to personal decision-making.

Important Brainstorming Factors to Keep in Mind

Despite its benefits, it’s important to note that brainstorming may not always be the most effective method in every scenario. It works best when guided by established principles and adapted to suit the specific needs and goals of a particular project or challenge.

• Group dynamics : Brainstorming may not work well in groups where there is a lack of trust, or where dominant personalities overshadow others. In such cases, alternative methods like individual ideation followed by group evaluation might be more effective.
• Time constraints : If time is limited, traditional brainstorming sessions can be lengthy. In such cases, rapid brainstorming techniques like “brainwriting” may be more time-efficient.
• Complex problems : For highly complex issues, brainstorming alone may not be enough. It might need to be supplemented with other problem-solving techniques, research, or expert consultation.
• Sensitive topics : Some topics may be too sensitive or controversial for traditional brainstorming, as the “no criticism” rule can hinder necessary discussions. In such cases, a more structured and moderated approach may be better.
• Overused technique : If a group frequently relies on brainstorming without variation, it can become less effective due to repetitive thinking. Mixing in different creative techniques can help maintain its effectiveness.
• Large groups : With too many participants, managing a brainstorming session can become unwieldy. Smaller breakout groups or online collaboration tools may be needed to facilitate effective idea generation.
• Clear goals : Brainstorming should always have a clear objective. If the purpose is ill-defined or ambiguous, it can lead to unfocused sessions and ineffective outcomes.

Different Types of Brainstorming

Based on the participants' involvement and the approach used to generate ideas, brainstorming can be divided into different types.

Individual Brainstorming

This involves a single person generating ideas on their own, often in a quiet and reflective setting. It’s suitable for personal projects, introspective thinking, or when group collaboration is impractical.

Group Brainstorming

Group brainstorming involves a team of people coming together to collectively generate ideas. It’s a collaborative approach that benefits from diverse perspectives and is often used in professional settings. Learn more about group brainstorming with our guide to effective group brainstorming strategies .

Analytical Brainstorming

In analytical brainstorming, participants focus on critically evaluating and analyzing existing ideas or problems. The aim is to break down complex issues and generate solutions through systematic analysis.

Quiet Brainstorming

Quiet brainstorming emphasizes a calm and focused environment, ideal for introverted individuals or those who work best in solitude. It allows for deep thinking without the pressure of vocalizing ideas.

Role Play Brainstorming

Participants take on different roles or personas to approach a problem from various perspectives. This technique encourages empathy and creative thinking by viewing the issue through different lenses.

What to Do Before a Brainstorming Session

Preparing for a successful brainstorming session is the first crucial step toward unlocking creativity and innovative solutions. Whether you’re tackling a complex problem, generating fresh ideas, or planning your next project, careful preparation will set the stage for productive collaboration and meaningful outcomes.

Select the right participants

Choose participants carefully based on their expertise, knowledge, and relevance to the topic. Ensure diversity in perspectives if possible, as different viewpoints can lead to richer discussions.

Schedule and communicate

Set a date, time, and location for the session, and communicate this information to all participants well in advance. If it’s conducted online, make sure to send an email invitation with the meeting link prior to the session. Ensure that everyone knows the session’s purpose and what is expected of them.

Provide background information

Share relevant information, data, or research materials with participants ahead of time. This allows participants to come prepared and have a better understanding of the topic or problem.

Prepare materials

Make sure that you have all the necessary materials ready, such as whiteboards, flip charts, markers, sticky notes, or digital tools. This makes it easier to capture and organize ideas during the session.

Assign a facilitator or moderator

If possible, appoint a facilitator or moderator who can guide the session, keep it on track, and enforce the ground rules. This person can also help manage time and encourage participation.

Refreshments and comfort

Depending on the duration of the session, provide refreshments and ensure a comfortable environment. Hungry or uncomfortable participants may not be as engaged or creative.

Backup plan

Have a backup plan in case technical issues arise or if the brainstorming session encounters unexpected challenges. Being prepared for contingencies can prevent disruptions.

Review previous sessions

If this is not the first brainstorming session on the topic, review the outcomes of previous sessions to build on existing ideas and avoid duplication.

How to Run a Productive Brainstorming Session

Define clear objectives.

Clearly articulate the purpose and goals of the brainstorming session. What specific problem are you trying to solve, or what ideas are you seeking to generate? Having a well-defined objective makes sure that the session remains focused.

Set the ground rules

Establish clear ground rules for the brainstorming session . Remind participants of the principles, such as no criticism during idea generation, encouraging wild ideas, and focusing on quantity over quality.

Set a time limit

Determine the duration of the brainstorming session and allocate specific time slots for each stage (ideation, discussion, evaluation, etc.). Adhering to a schedule helps maintain focus and productivity.

Warm-up activity

Consider starting the session with a warm-up activity or icebreaker to help participants get into a creative mindset and build rapport with each other.

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Decide on a brainstorming technique

If you prefer a more structured brainstorming approach, you can select a brainstorming technique such as mind mapping, 5 whys, reverse brainstorming, etc. to guide the idea generation process. You can also use sticky notes to write down ideas first and an affinity diagram to group them later based on themes.

Generate ideas

Encourage participants (whether individual or group) to generate a wide range of ideas without self-censorship. Emphasize that all ideas are welcome, no matter how unconventional they may seem.

Capture ideas

Record and document all ideas as they are generated. Use tools like whiteboards, sticky notes, or digital platforms to display and organize the ideas.

Build on ideas

After initial idea generation, invite participants to expand, refine, or combine each other’s ideas. This collaborative process can lead to innovative solutions.

Organize and prioritize

Categorize and group related ideas to identify common themes or patterns. Discuss and evaluate the ideas based on relevant criteria to prioritize the most promising ones.

You can use a prioritization grid to visually evaluate the ideas based on relevant criteria such as feasibility, impact, and relevance to prioritize the most promising ones.

Select the best ideas

Choose the ideas or solutions that align best with your objectives or criteria. Encourage participants to vote on ideas they prefer and you can select ones with the most votes. These are the concepts you will further develop or implement.

Action planning

Create an action plan that outlines specific steps, responsibilities, and timelines for implementing or exploring the selected ideas.

Document everything

Keep a comprehensive record of all generated ideas, even those not immediately selected. These can serve as a valuable resource for future brainstorming or reference.

Feedback and iteration

Seek feedback from others if applicable, and be open to refining and iterating on your ideas based on input and new insights.

Brainstorming Methods and Templates

Brainstorming methods are valuable tools for individuals and groups seeking to tap into their collective creativity and explore new possibilities. From structured processes like mind mapping and SWOT analysis to more unconventional methods like the 5 Whys and negative brainstorming, these techniques provide a structured framework to inspire fresh thinking and uncover innovative solutions.

• Mind mapping : Creating a visual representation of ideas by branching out from a central concept with related sub-ideas, helping to uncover connections and associations.
• Brainwriting : Participants silently write down their ideas on paper or digital platforms, passing them to others for further development or evaluation.
• Round Robin Brainstorming : In a group, each member takes turns suggesting one idea until everyone has contributed, often fostering more equitable participation.
• Reverse Brainstorming : Identifying ways to create or exacerbate a problem, which can lead to innovative solutions when these negative scenarios are reversed.
• SCAMPER : An acronym for Substitute, Combine, Adapt, Modify, Put to Another Use, Eliminate, and Reverse, used to prompt creative thinking by altering existing ideas.
• Storyboarding : Creating a visual narrative of a process, idea, or concept using drawings, images, or sketches to aid in brainstorming and idea development.

Roles Storming : Participants take on different roles or personas to explore a problem or idea from various perspectives.

SWOT Analysis : Evaluating strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats related to a topic to generate ideas for improvement or growth.

• Random Word Association : Using randomly generated words or images as prompts to trigger creative thinking and idea generation.
• Card Sorting : Organizing ideas or concepts on physical or digital cards, then rearranging and categorizing them to identify patterns or solutions.

Stepladder Technique : Introducing new members to an ongoing brainstorming group one at a time, allowing fresh perspectives and ideas to emerge gradually.

Six Thinking Hats : Participants wear metaphorical “hats” representing different thinking styles (e.g., creative, critical, optimistic) to explore a topic from multiple angles.

• Lotus Blossom Technique : Expanding on a central idea by creating a diagram with multiple interconnected sub-ideas, allowing for in-depth exploration.
• Starbursting : Ask and answer questions (who, what, where, when, why, how) about a central idea to gain insights and generate new ideas.
• Rapid Ideation : Quickly generate a large quantity of ideas without overthinking, with the understanding that evaluation comes later.
• Plus-Delta Method (Delta+) : Assess past experiences by identifying positives (pluses) and areas for improvement (deltas) to learn and make future improvements.
• Fishbone Diagram (Ishikawa) : Visualize and analyze potential causes of a problem using a branching diagram.
• Affinity Diagram : Organize large amounts of data or ideas into related categories or themes to identify patterns and insights.

Common Brainstorming Mistakes to Avoid

Brainstorming is a valuable tool for generating creative ideas and solutions, but it can be less effective if certain common mistakes are not addressed. Here are some common brainstorming mistakes to avoid:

• Criticism and evaluation : One of the cardinal rules of brainstorming is to defer criticism and judgment during the idea generation phase. Critiquing ideas as they are presented can stifle creativity and make participants hesitant to share. Avoid evaluating or criticizing ideas until the brainstorming session is over.
• Dominance : Allowing one or a few individuals to dominate the discussion can lead to an imbalance of ideas. Ensure that everyone has an equal opportunity to contribute, and encourage quieter participants to speak up.
• Groupthink : Groupthink occurs when participants conform to a consensus or the opinions of a dominant person within the group. It can limit the diversity of ideas. Encourage participants to think independently and express dissenting viewpoints.
• Lack of structure : While brainstorming should be free-flowing, it still benefits from some structure. Without clear guidelines or a well-defined problem statement, brainstorming sessions can become disorganized and unfocused.
• No follow-up : Brainstorming without follow-up actions can result in a lack of accountability and implementation. Ensure that ideas generated in the session are documented, evaluated, and assigned to responsible parties for further action.
• Overthinking : Overthinking and overanalyzing ideas too early in the process can inhibit creativity. Encourage participants to let their thoughts flow freely without worrying about feasibility or practicality at the beginning.
• Staying in the comfort zone : Participants may stick with familiar or safe ideas instead of exploring new or unconventional ones. Encourage thinking outside the box and exploring diverse perspectives.
• Not mixing techniques : Relying solely on one brainstorming technique for all situations may not yield the best results. Experiment with different techniques and approaches depending on the goals and nature of the problem.
• Skipping warm-up activities : Jumping straight into brainstorming without warm-up activities or icebreakers can hinder creativity. Warm-up exercises can help participants get into a creative mindset.

Brainstorming Tips

Whether you’re working individually or in a group, here are some effective brainstorming tips to help you create a conducive environment for creativity, encourage diverse perspectives, and improve the quality of ideas generated.

• Set clear objectives : Clearly define the problem, challenge, or goal that the brainstorming session aims to address. A well-defined objective provides participants with a clear focus and purpose for generating ideas.
• Create a comfortable environment: Ensure the physical environment is comfortable, with ample seating, appropriate lighting, and minimal distractions. Additionally, create a psychologically safe space where participants feel comfortable sharing their ideas without fear of criticism.
• Defer judgment : Emphasize that during the initial idea generation phase, criticism and evaluation should be avoided. This encourages participants to freely express their thoughts without self-censorship.
• Build upon ideas : Encourage participants to listen actively and build on each other’s ideas. Collaboration and idea development can lead to more refined and creative concepts.
• Use visual aids : Utilize visual tools such as whiteboards, sticky notes, or digital collaboration platforms to help participants organize ideas visually and stimulate creative thinking.
• Silent brainstorming : Incorporate silent brainstorming sessions where participants write down their ideas individually before sharing them with the group. This approach can be particularly helpful for introverted participants.
• Change perspectives : Encourage participants to explore the problem or idea from different angles or viewpoints. This can trigger fresh insights and solutions.
• Mindful listening : Promote active and attentive listening during idea sharing. This means allowing others to express their ideas without interruption and acknowledging their contributions.
• Combine and modify ideas : Explore how combining or modifying ideas can lead to entirely new and innovative solutions. Encourage participants to think about how different concepts can complement each other.
• Rotate facilitators : If conducting multiple brainstorming sessions, consider rotating the role of the facilitator. Different facilitators can bring diverse leadership styles and approaches to each session, leading to varied outcomes.
• Celebrate successes : Recognize and celebrate the achievements resulting from successful brainstorming sessions. Acknowledging contributions and successes fosters a culture of innovation and encourages continued creative thinking.

Effective Tips and Tricks to Running Successful Brainstorming Workshops

You can use these tips to improve your brainstorming workshop’s creativity, engagement, and overall effectiveness.

• Have a diverse facilitation team : Assign a co-facilitator or subject matter expert to help the primary facilitator. This allows for different perspectives and expertise to guide the workshop effectively.
• Use idea generation techniques : Try different structured idea generation techniques beyond standard brainstorming, such as mind mapping, SWOT analysis, or the Six Thinking Hats method, to generate multiple ideas.
• Rotate facilitators : If the workshop is lengthy, consider rotating the facilitator role during different phases. This helps to maintain participants' engagement and provide fresh perspectives.
• Use breakout groups : Split participants into smaller breakout groups to work on specific aspects of the problem or to generate ideas independently. Afterward, bring these groups together to share and analyze what they brainstormed.
• Try cross-pollination : Encourage participants from different teams or departments to collaborate, fostering cross-functional thinking and innovation.
• Use silent brainstorming : Silent brainstorming is a technique where participants write down their ideas independently before sharing. This minimizes groupthink and helps generate a wide range of ideas.
• Try role play and simulation : Include role-playing or simulation exercises relevant to the workshop’s theme to encourage creativity and empathy in problem-solving.
• Use physical props : Introduce physical props, visual aids, or prototypes related to the topic to stimulate ideas and inspire innovative solutions.
• Form expert panels : Invite experts or guest speakers to share insights or provide different perspectives during the workshop, inspiring participants with fresh viewpoints.
• Have storytelling sessions : Hold storytelling sessions where participants share personal or relevant stories related to the topic. This can evoke emotions and lead to more creative thinking.
• Use gaming elements : Include gamification elements, such as team challenges or problem-solving games, to make the workshop more engaging and competitive. Here’s how to make virtual brainstorming fun and effective .
• Have feedback loops : Build in periodic feedback loops where participants can reflect on the workshop’s progress and suggest adjustments to the process.
• Use visual documentation : Use visual recording techniques (e.g. graphic facilitation or sketchnoting) to visually capture the workshop’s key points and ideas, creating a dynamic record.
• End with a creative exercise : Wrap up the workshop with a creative exercise or activity that helps participants to unwind and reflect on the day’s accomplishments, reinforcing the creative mindset.

In this guide, we have covered everything about brainstorming, from what it is to how to do it well. We explored methods, gave tips, and pointed out common mistakes to avoid. Whether you’re a business leader, team member, or just interested in brainstorming, this guide has given you the knowledge and tools to succeed.

Remember, brainstorming is not just a process; it’s a way of thinking that encourages open discussion and creative problem-solving. By using the principles and practices mentioned here, you can tap into the full potential of brainstorming to generate creative ideas and find innovative solutions for your personal and professional challenges.

Join over thousands of organizations that use Creately to brainstorm, plan, analyze, and execute their projects successfully.

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Amanda Athuraliya is the communication specialist/content writer at Creately, online diagramming and collaboration tool. She is an avid reader, a budding writer and a passionate researcher who loves to write about all kinds of topics.

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Mind Mapping

10 creative techniques to foster idea generation and innovative perspectives.

Senior Content Marketing Manager

November 30, 2023

Picasso once declared , “Every child is an artist; the problem is staying an artist when you grow up.” In the heartbeat of this quote lies a profound truth: the innate creativity we possess can either flourish or wither depending on the environment it’s nurtured in.

As much as we value creative thinking, the practical aspects of life tend to smother it. The result? Many professionals find themselves without the right skills for problem-solving or tackling new challenges.

But the truth is that a good command of creative techniques is a strategic imperative in today’s workplace, especially when there’s a proliferation of generative AI tools just waiting to replace human creativity.

So, let’s make this easier for you! We’ve compiled 10 tricks and techniques to turbocharge creative thinking processes for individuals and teams, and we’ll also present some tools within ClickUp to nurture the right setup for brainstorming original ideas! 🔥

What is Creative Thinking?

1. brainstorming, 2. reverse brainstorming, 3. mind mapping, 4. role-playing, 5. scamper technique, 6. random input association, 7. six thinking hats, 8. storyboarding, 9. metaphorical thinking, 10. silent meetings, real-world benefits of creative thinking.

Creative thinking is the mental process of generating original ideas, concepts, or solutions to problems at any scale. The keyword is novelty. By exploring complex connections and imaginative approaches, a creative thinker uncovers solution-centric insights that cannot be acquired through conventional thinking patterns.

A typical creative thinking process includes:

• Considering new theories and possibilities
• Developing out-of-the-box solutions
• Risk-taking to hold space for the proposed solutions to flourish

From a business perspective, creative thinking takes the shape of critical thinking, which also requires breaking free from routine ideas, albeit with lower risk tolerance.

According to a Global CEO study by IBM , creative thinking ranks the most crucial factor for future success . It helps businesses thrive in volatile, uncertain, and increasingly complex markets and requires a degree of flexibility and open-mindedness among leaders.

Know that creative, analytical, and logical thinking go hand in hand. While creativity helps explore new horizons, you must leverage analytical skills to find practical solutions. 💡

Think Outside the Box: 10 Creative Techniques to Find Savvy Solutions Fast

Creative techniques have greatly evolved in recent times. You no longer have to wake up at half past one night to write down or brainstorm a genius idea. To cook up something brilliant, you only need the right knowledge resources, creativity techniques, and a pinch of curious minds.

Let’s discover 10 creativity techniques to ignite your imagination. Each approach is unique and can be adapted for solo or team sessions—explore them all to find your creative groove! 

We’ll also introduce you to some cracking tools within ClickUp , an all-in-work work solution, to make the job even easier!

When advertising executive Alex Osborne first illustrated the process of brainstorming in the 1950s, he probably didn’t foresee his brainchild becoming one of the most widely used creative brainstorming techniques !

Brainstorming is all about generating ideas alone or as a group, with a focus on quantity rather than quality of ideas. The idea is to explore the viability of even the craziest solutions and build on doable suggestions. Research proves this technique boosts creative problem-solving skills in groups that follow different thinking styles. 

Creative brainstorming techniques pair perfectly with a whiteboard that helps visualize suggestions. Most teams prefer a digital whiteboard over a physical one, as it comes with smart ideation tools and allows remote and hybrid teams to brainstorm without limitations.

Try ClickUp Whiteboards at your next brainstorming session and take action from the ideation phase to strategic execution. You and your team get a limitless canvas and a handy editing toolbar to give form to any idea. Use items like shapes, lines, sticky notes, images, and texts to present suggestions and create actionable tasks right on the platform.

ClickUp Whiteboards support both real time and async brainstorming and have a drag-and-drop interface, allowing complete ease of use.

If you want to add structure to your process, use the ClickUp Brainstorming Template to make your sessions more productive and logical with tangible workflows for any use case. The Whiteboard-based ClickUp Business Brainstorming Template and ClickUp Squad Brainstorm Template are also excellent options!

Ever wondered what happens when you flip your thinking script? That’s the essence of reverse thinking—a creative twist where you ask, “How can we create this problem?” rather than the usual “How do we solve it?”  

Challenging the norm and delving into the opposite perspective sparks fresh insights and unconventional solutions. It’s like turning problems inside out to uncover hidden roadblocks, making it a dynamic approach for problem-solving and unleashing innovation.

Reverse thinking is a great option if your team is stuck in a rut regarding ideas. Make use of the ClickUp 5 Whys Template to implement this technique quickly and unravel perspectives to reshape your processes or outcomes.

The mind map ping technique, pioneered by British psychology author and educator Tony Buzan , revolutionized the way we organize and comprehend information. Stemming from Buzan’s insight into the non-linear nature of human thought, mind maps serve as versatile tools for brainstorming , problem-solving, and idea generation.

At the heart of a mind map lies a central idea, from which branches radiate, weaving a visual tapestry of interconnected thoughts, categories, and details. By embracing colors, images, and keywords, mind-mapping tools help you tap into the brain’s natural organizational tendencies, providing a holistic and creative approach to information visualization. 😎

Need a shortcut? Using Mind Maps in ClickUp unlocks a whole world of possibilities for project planning and organization! Let us show you what you can do:

• Craft a step-by-step process to visualize the problem by connecting processes or flow of tasks within ClickUp
• Use the drag-and-drop feature to connect dependencies and adjust workflows, allowing creative solutions to emerge
• Add, edit, and delete tasks right from your Mind Map
• Share Mind Maps with your team or link them to documents and tasks

ClickUp offers a wealth of user-friendly and well-designed mind-mapping templates to facilitate different group brainstorming techniques.

Role-playing is like stepping into different shoes to navigate real-world scenarios. It’s the art of assuming roles, honing perspectives, and refining communication and problem-solving skills. As a creativity-boosting technique, it’s great for training, team building , improving interpersonal dynamics, as well as creative conflict resolution. 🤺

Imagine a workplace scenario where two skilled coders, Alex and Taylor, struggle to collaborate. In a role-playing exercise, both individuals could take on each other’s roles to understand the challenges from the other’s perspective. Alex, portraying Taylor, might express frustrations about feeling unheard, while Taylor, playing the role of Alex, could articulate concerns about the perceived lack of contribution.

Through this role-playing scenario, the team gains insights into the conflict and finds solutions through constructive and empathetic communication.

We recommend exploring the ClickUp Empathy Map Whiteboard Template to visualize the goals, motivations, and behaviors of stakeholders and facilitate richer insights.

A brainchild of Alex Osborne and Bob Eberle, the SCAMPER technique is a clever toolkit for turning the ordinary into extraordinary. This creative technique is for improving existing workflows , products, and services. 🤩

The SCAMPER practice requires adding new ideas in response to a guiding question. Here’s what you (or your team) should address:

• S – Substitute : What can I substitute to make this different or better?
• C – Combine : What if I combine this with another alternative?
• A – Adapt : How can I tweak this to make it work in a different context?
• M – Modify : What if I change the color, size, shape, or other attributes?
• P – Put to Another Use : How else can this be applied or repurposed?
• E – Eliminate : What if I take away certain components?
• R – Reverse/Rearrange : What happens if I change the order of tasks or do things backward?

Using SCAMPER, you challenge the status quo and transform old ideas into visionary concepts. It’s a powerful way to shake up your team’s routine and stimulate creative muscles.

The random input (word or object) association method is like a creativity spark plug. It’s a lateral thinking technique that requires you to pick any word or object on a whim and then let your mind connect it to the problem at hand. It’s like brainstorming but with a twist. 😏

For instance, if your random word is “ocean” and you’re dealing with a team management issue , you might associate the vastness of the ocean with the diversity of perspectives your team brings. It’s a playful way to break out of your usual thinking patterns or monotonous brainstorming sessions and stumble upon fresh, unexpected ideas that can lead to innovative solutions.

Experiment with it. You’ll be amazed at how random words can spark a cascade of insights, leading to breakthroughs!

Edward de Bono created the analytical gem, the Six Thinking Hats technique, which can push creative thinking outside your comfort zone. It not only helps predict what lies ahead but also proactively tackles typical group dynamics problems like:

• Contradictory viewpoints that cause misunderstandings
• Confrontational tactics that lead to disputes

Check out what the six hats represent:

• White Hat (Facts) : Objective and factual thinking, focusing on available information
• Red Hat (Emotions) : Intuitive and emotional thinking, exploring feelings, hunches, and gut reactions
• Black Hat (Critical Judgment) : Analytical and cautious thinking, highlighting potential risks and identifying weaknesses
• Yellow Hat (Optimism) : Positive and constructive thinking, emphasizing benefits, possibilities, and opportunities
• Green Hat (Creativity) : Creative and exploratory thinking, generating new ideas and considering alternatives
• Blue Hat (Control) : Managing the thinking process, focusing on organizing thoughts, summarizing, and planning next steps

Managers can set the mode for a particular meeting—for instance, a green hat mode would be a green signal for throwing in creative ideas, while a black hat mode would switch the session to a more analytical format. 🎩

Through the ingenious use of distinct colors, this brainstorming technique offers a structured approach to exploring decisions from diverse angles, fostering clarity and harmonious group interaction.

Building on the varied perspectives offered by the Six Thinking Hats method, you can further ignite your team’s creativity through the visual collaboration exercise of storyboarding. It’s a dynamic tool that encourages creative, big-picture thinking and collaboration .

Storyboards are like comic strips that help plan out a story or project. Each square on the board shows a different snapshot of the story. Video producers , design teams , and storytellers use them to develop ideas. For creative projects , storyboarding can be conducted in four steps:

• Spell out the idea for the participants so they can prepare beforehand
• Map out the ideas presented on a whiteboard—every doodle or squiggle can be a springboard for innovation
• Invite participants to add annotations and questions to the board
• Allow the team to finalize solutions and assign responsibilities for execution

If you want an easy way to do it, there’s the ClickUp Storyboard Template to help you organize ideas quickly. Its ready-made structure supports collaborative editing and assembly of all storyboard assets, making it a must-have for creative teams!

Think of a mom reading fairy tales to her child. The kid would be amazed at the prospect of a talking tree, but she’d say, “The forest isn’t really talking, sweetheart; it’s a way to show how nature communicates!” 🌳

That’s metaphorical thinking—we’re taking something we know isn’t literally true to help us understand a deeper idea. We already use several metaphorical phrases for work, such as:

• Teamwork is like a well-oiled machine
• Time management is like conducting an orchestra; precision creates a harmonious performance
• Creativity is like cooking; the right mix sparks a flavorful masterpiece

To sum it up, metaphorical thinking is like comparing things unrelated to getting a new way of looking at something. If your team struggles to explain or understand a problem, consider using it to highlight the crux of the matter and invite practical solutions.

You might find it odd, but silence can be incredibly powerful. It allows space for introspection and quieter team members to voice their ideas. Silent meetings are like “table reads,” where participants voice their opinions quietly or through async mode. These sessions level the playing field, allowing all voices to be heard, not just the loudest.

There’s no pressure to gather everyone in the same physical or virtual space. Participants can engage with meeting materials, share thoughts, and respond at their own pace.

This method allows for more thoughtful and detailed contributions, providing participants with time to reflect and articulate their ideas. Silent meetings are often conducted through written platforms, email threads, or collaboration tools, fostering inclusive participation and accommodating diverse working schedules or time zones.

ClickUp offers a host of collaboration features to enhance your silent meetings. From writing well-worded meeting agendas to compiling viewpoints in ClickUp Docs and Notepads , it has your back.

Now, here’s the cool part— ClickUp has this awesome AI assistant that can boost your silent meetings or any creative session in general. It helps:

• Generate creative and initial ideas based on readymade prompts
• Polish the tone and grammar of your suggestions before meetings
• Generate threads to centralize team discussions
• Summarize meeting notes and extract action items
• Start the brainstorming process for blog post ideas

Plus, if you’re dealing with participants sharing notes in different languages, ClickUp AI can even help with translation. It’s like having a virtual assistant to make sure your ideas come across just right! 🤖

Creative thinking isn’t a whimsical luxury—it’s the powerhouse behind problem-solving, innovation, and organizational resilience. Still in two minds? Here are some additional advantages that arise from embracing creative thinking techniques:

• Adaptability : Teams are more adaptable and open to change and can navigate uncertain situations with flexibility and resilience
• Impressive innovations : Whether it’s sparking the development of new product design or revolutionizing industrial practices, creative thinking is the driving force behind innovations that matter
• Enhanced communication : Creativity fosters the ability to express ideas in novel and compelling ways, improving communication and making information more accessible and engaging
• Emotional intelligence : Engaging in creative thinking promotes a collective growth mindset within teams, which leads to higher levels of emotional intelligence and conflict management
• Increased productivity : Creative problem-solving often results in more efficient and streamlined processes , leading to increased productivity in various domains

Transforming Dull Sessions into Creative Masterpieces with ClickUp

Creativity is not a passive process—it’s something that you can improve and develop with a little practice, effort, and work. 

Whether employing mind mapping for strategic planning or silent meetings for asynchronous collaboration, the creative methods we discussed extend their application to almost any problem-solving scenario.

Bolster your creativity techniques with ClickUp and its array of innovative tools and features. From collaborative Whiteboards to harnessing the power of AI for content creation, ClickUp offers practical avenues to stimulate and elevate the creative thinking process! 🌱

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CPS for Educators

Transform your students into creative leaders, according to the world economic forum, creativity is a top skill needed for the 21st century workforce to succeed. as franklin d. roosevelt said, “we may not be able to prepare the future for our children, but we can prepare our children for the future.”.

Creative Problem Solving (CPS) unlocks creative thinking and teaches critical thinking processes that transform creativity into action. The CPS process also builds confidence, resilience, and tolerance for ambiguity because once learned, students know that whatever they face, they have clear steps to apply to get through any challenge.

CEF trains educators from K through College in the mindset, tool set, and skill set of CPS. A creative mindset improves communication, fosters positive engagement, and is fun. The tools and skills of CPS easily overlay any other initiative or curriculum because they enact a way of thinking and processing. Further, CPS fosters effective collaboration and team-building — all skills students need to have as part of a 21st Century workforce.

Bring Deliberate Creativity to Your School

To schedule your CPS Professional Development Training or to inquire about bringing CPSI to your school or campus, contact us today for more information.

CPS Professional Development   for Educators

Custom cps educator pd programs.

CEF can design workshops for your teaching teams as short as 90 minutes or for multiple days. We can provide virtual workshops, live workshops, one-on-one teacher coaching, and we can work with hundreds of teachers at once. Let us customize a CPS Educator PD program for you that fits your needs and budget.

Click below to learn more or schedule your CPS Professional Development Training or to inquire about bringing CPSI to your school or campus.

CPSI Conference

The Creative Problem Solving Institute (CPSI, “SIP-see”) is our signature, 4-Day creativity, innovation, and leadership conference held each June. We can also take our CPSI show on the road and bring it to your school for students, faculty, and administrators. We will design and run a virtual or on-campus CPSI conference for one day or multiple days and can include CPS and other creativity and innovation workshops. 

Foundations in CPS session descriptions

Session 1: setting the stage.

• How we solve problems everyday
• How we might solve problems faster
• Developing the mindset for deliberate creativity

Session 2: Introducing Creative Process

• Foursight preferences
• Introduce Clarify stage of CPS

Session 3: Formulating Challenges

• Gather data
• Formulate challenge statements
• Identify problem owner

Session 4: Exploring Ideas

• Ideation tools and methods
• Seeking outside perspectives

Session 5: Developing Solutions

• Convergence
• Find and formulate solutions

Session 6: Formulating a Plan

• Action planning
• Ownership of action steps
• Debriefing experiences

Session 7: Reviewing and Implementation

• Review of CPS process

Session 8: Coaching

• Unstructured time with course facilitators to review, practice, and personalize the learning

Creative Problem Solving generates break-through ideas, improves teamwork, and energizes the classroom. CPS professional development will help you and your students:

• Recognize and overcome blocks to creativity. 
• Identify attitudes and behaviors conducive to creative thinking. 
• Apply core concepts of creative thinking. 
• Use a variety of divergent and convergent thinking tools. 
• Apply the CPS method to many simulated or real situations. 
• Consciously be creative when facing problems and opportunities.

Register today and complete continuing education hours that will inspire you for the new school year!

Why is creative problem solving important for students.

The world is changing at breakneck speed, and we must prepare students for this reality. In fact, we need to prepare children to be the inventors of this new and fast-changing world.

According to Forbes , people will change jobs 15-20 times and have as many as 7 careers. The US Department of Labor predicts that 65% of students will become adults holding jobs that don’t exist yet. Schools that teach deliberate creativity prepare students for the imminent unknown.

We work with schools that recognize the creativity gap and that seek to reclaim teachers’ and students’ natural creativity to develop integrated and dynamic systems that improve school culture and community, all while fostering breakthrough academic success.

Why should teachers and students learn Creative Problem Solving?

CPS fosters skills and abilities that represent an array of 21st Century outcomes. Educators and students will learn to:

• Value inquiry and curiosity, and how to use the tools and techniques to develop these intuitive inclinations.
• Embrace creativity, risk-taking, and imagination – qualities essential to revealing new ideas and solutions.
• Couple creative thinking with critical analysis to both unlock possibility and to define actionable activities.
• Collaborate as part of a team and communicate complex ideas.

CPS is an essential practice that helps students become nimble, fluent, and innovative thinkers.

Thinking Inside the Educational Box

Creativity often flourishes within restricted environments. CPS can cultivate creativity no matter what restrictions or barriers you may have. Our professional development generates break-through ideas, improves teamwork, and energizes participants.  Learn to:

• Recognize and overcome blocks to creativity.
• Identify attitudes and behaviors conducive to creative thinking.
• Apply core concepts of creative thinking.
• Use a variety of thinking tools.
• Apply the CPS process to simulated or real situations.
• Make deliberate creativity a regular way to engage the world.

What educators have to say about our professional development:

Creativity and problem solving are essential skills for students in this century. We use these skills in a variety of ways in our school. First, the CPS process is an excellent tool for students to understand, and implement, as they engage in and lead a more complex and demanding world. Second, at our school, we use the process to define and implement growth!

Head of School , Inly School

Creative Education Foundation is providing teachers in Stamford Public Schools ways to think differently about instructional practice; to allow students to understand there are many ways to solve problems and different answers to the same questions. As we educate in the 21st century and beyond and prepare students for college and careers we need to continue to reflect on how we teach but also on how students learn.

Superintendent , Stamford Public Schools

In education it is imperative that we consider not only the what (CPS) but the why and the how. Creative thinking and Creative Problem Solving foster and promote metacognition. Creative thinking enables a student to come to awareness. After teaching a very short unit on Learning Styles to a fourth-grade classroom, one student went home and told his Mom, “Mom, I am not stupid! I’m kinesthetic!”. That student went from a learning challenged student in elementary school to an honor student when he graduated from high school. He was able to learn and process information in his learning style without interfering with the teacher’s teaching and promote metacognition. Creative thinking enables a student to come to awareness.

Fourth Grade Teacher

As an academic, I have found that the CPS process provides a well- researched, grounded process to facilitate creativity and innovation. At our Center, we use the CPS process and tools to help students, faculty, and businesses identify new solutions to challenging problems in their communities and beyond. The CPS tools and techniques provide flexibility and structure for those we work with and help give them permission to bring their ideas forward, create new ones and approach their challenge from a different perspective.

Director , Center for Innovation, University of North Dakota

The challenges within Higher Education demand that universities and colleges control costs, Increase completion rates, and address inequities within institutional resources. Creative Problems Solving (CPS) provides a framework for identifying opportunities and solving problems when conventional thinking has failed.  The mindset of CPS encourages you to adopt creative thinking in order to find fresh perspectives and come up with innovative solutions. 

Whether deploying CPS within the academic or administrative divisions, CPS pulls on the strengths of teams by engaging the team in clarifying the challenge, generating potential Solutions and executing the action plan.

COO Boys and Girls Clubs of St. Joseph County , Formerly ND Innovates Program Director and Adjunct Faculty at the University of Notre Dame

Contact us today to schedule your CPS Professional Development Training or to inquire about bringing CPSI to your school or campus.

• Distance Learning
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Discover more of our educational resources for teachers now!

Creative problem solving (cps) overview.

• Proven. CPS has been used for more than 50 years by organizations throughout the world and is supported by research, with hundreds of published studies on its effectiveness and impact.
• Portable. CPS links your natural creativity and problem-solving approaches. It is an easy-to-learn process that can be readily applied by individuals and groups of many ages, in many organizations, settings, and cultures.
• Powerful. CPS can be integrated with many organizational activities, providing new or additional tools for making a real difference. It can stimulate important and lasting changes in your life and work.
• Practical. CPS can be used for dealing with everyday problems as well as long-term challenges and opportunities.
• Positive. CPS helps you to unleash your creative talent and to focus your thinking constructively. When applied by groups, CPS promotes teamwork, collaboration, and constructive diversity when dealing with complex opportunities and challenges.

Children, adolescents, and adults can learn and apply CPS, working independently or as part of a group or team.

Free Resources:

Click here to find a number of free resources that will explain CPS, to obtain articles that deal with both research and practice, and to obtain an extensive bibliography to give you direction for future reading and study.

Online Resources:

Click here for advanced online resources in PDF format to support your efforts to learn, apply, and teach CPS. These resources are available at a reasonable cost for immediate download. The cost of each one includes permission to duplicate the file for up to three other individuals at no additional charge.

Distance Learning Resources:

Click here for information about our extensive (newly revised and updated) distance learning modules on CPS.

Print Resources:

We also have print publications about problem-solving style that you can purchase.  Click here to view those publications.

Workshops, Training, Consulting Services:

Our CPS programs and services are custom-tailored to meet your needs and interests. We will confer with you, create a complete proposal to meet your unique needs, and work closely with you to carry out our collaborative plan. Click here for more.

We believe that all people have strengths and talents that are important to recognize, develop, and use throughout life.  Read more.

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Leadership Team

Our work builds on more than five decades of research, development, and practical experience in organizations. Learn more about our team .

Contact Information

Center for Creative Learning, LLC 2015 Grant Place Melbourne, Florida, 32901 USA Email: [email protected]

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How to Foster Creativity: Tools and Techniques

Creativity thrives when nurtured by the right mindset and environment. To boost this innate talent, cultivate a growth mindset, embracing failures as learning opportunities. Diverse surroundings stimulate fresh perspectives, while daily rituals like journaling or meditation can ignite innovative ideas. Collaborative brainstorming sessions harness the collective genius, driving groundbreaking solutions.

Table of Contents

Modern tools like digital mind-mapping software further augment the creative process. Interestingly, constraints, rather than hindering, often catalyze creativity. Lastly, continuous learning and constructive feedback refine and elevate creative endeavors, making them impactful.

Understanding the Essence of Creativity

Creativity is often visualized as the lightbulb moment, a sudden spark that leads to ground-breaking ideas. Creativity is the ability to conceive something new and original, be it an idea, a method, or an artifact. It transcends mere talent or skill, encompassing the capability to visualize things differently, to connect the dots between seemingly unrelated concepts, and to generate solutions.

In personal life, creativity design enriches experiences, offers fulfillment, and aids in expressing one’s unique perspective. Professionally, it’s the driving force behind advancements, ensuring industries evolve and stay relevant in changing times.

Creativity vs. Innovation: The Distinctive Dance

While ‘creativity’ and ‘innovation’ are often used interchangeably, they represent distinct concepts. Creativity, as highlighted, is the act of producing new and unique ideas. It’s the seed, the genesis of a concept.

On the other hand, innovation is the practical application and execution of these creative ideas, turning them into tangible, value-added results. Think of it this way: creativity designs the blueprint, while innovation builds the structure. Both are crucial for progress, but they play different roles in the journey from ideation to realization.

The Brain’s Role: Neuroscience and Creative Thinking

The human mind can achieve remarkable accomplishments, with creativity being one of its most captivating manifestations. Neuroscientific research into creativity has unveiled intricate networks and processes when we engage in creative thinking. Two central brain systems play a role: the default mode network (DMN) and the executive oversight network.

The DMN is activated when our minds wander, daydream, or contemplate, making it central to spontaneous creativity. On the other hand, the organizational control network is activated when we focus on tasks, aiding in directed creative efforts and problem-solving.

Furthermore, the importance of creativity in problem-solving lies in its ability to break free from linear thinking. Traditional approaches may need to be revised when faced with complex challenges. Here, creativity designs unconventional solutions, pushing boundaries and encouraging the brain to view problems from multiple angles. This multi-faceted approach ensures comprehensive solutions catering to the intricacies of the challenge.

Creativity isn’t just an abstract concept reserved for artists, designers, or thinkers; it’s an integral part of human cognition and design. Understanding its essence is crucial for personal enrichment and is a cornerstone for professional advancement, creativity design, and effective problem-solving. As we dive deeper into the intricate dance between creativity and the brain, we gain insight into harnessing this potential, ensuring a future replete with innovative solutions and progress.

Cultivating the Right Mindset

Our mindset, or how we perceive ourselves and our abilities, plays a pivotal role in nurturing or stifling our creative energies. Creativity synonyms could be “inventiveness” or “originality.” But regardless of the terminology, the essence remains constant: to be creative is to be open to possibilities, accessible in thought, and adaptable to change. The mindset one adopts either acts as fertile soil, allowing these traits to flourish, or as an inhibitor, stunting creative growth.

Embracing Growth: Strategies for a Nurturing Mindset

Coined by psychologist Carol Dweck, the term “growth mindset” implies the belief that intelligence and abilities can evolve with time. This development comes through experiences, guidance, and intentional practice. Adopting this mindset is crucial for creativity, as it emphasizes the journey over the destination and views challenges as opportunities for growth.

Challenge Yourself Regularly: Venture beyond your comfort boundaries. Embrace new experiences or projects that make you feel slightly uncertain. This encourages adaptability and innovative thinking.

Stay Curious: Cultivate an insatiable curiosity. Question the world, seek fresh perspectives, and explore topics outside your expertise.

Combat Mental Blocks: Mental blocks, often a creativity synonym for “mental barriers,” can deter even the most seasoned creators. Overcoming them requires recognizing their presence, actively seeking inspiration—through nature, conversations, or art—and allowing oneself periods of rest and reflection.

Fueling Creativity from Failures and Criticisms

Failures and criticisms, though challenging to swallow, can be powerful catalysts for creativity and its synonyms if approached with the right mindset. Here’s how to transform these seemingly negative experiences into creative fuel and harness the power of creativity’s synonym:

Embrace Failures as Lessons: Instead of viewing failures as final endpoints, see them as feedback. What can they teach you? Often, they illuminate areas of improvement, offering more precise direction for future endeavors.

Constructive Criticism is a Gift: Not all criticism is meant to tear you down. Constructive feedback, though it may sting initially, provides invaluable insights. Instead of becoming defensive, be grateful for these insights and use them to refine your creative process.

Redefine Success: Instead of focusing on the end result, celebrate the small victories—a new skill learned, a unique approach discovered, or a challenge overcome.

The road to creativity, synonym, winds through the mind’s terrain. Cultivating a mindset that embraces growth, learns from failures, and thrives on feedback ensures this journey is successful and deeply fulfilling.

The Power of Diverse Environments

Every environment, from a bustling city square to a quiet countryside, offers a unique sensory experience that has the power to influence and shape our creative processes. The stimuli we receive from our surroundings act as fodder for our imagination, directly impacting the ideas we generate and how we approach problems. For instance, someone working in creativity jobs, be it in advertising, design, or content creation, might find a change in setting brings forth a fresh wave of inspiration, altering their perspective or offering novel ideas.

Immersing in Varied Cultures and Experiences

Broadening Horizons: Immersion in different cultures introduces us to alternative ways of life, thinking, and problem-solving. These new experiences challenge our preconceived notions and biases, leading to a more comprehensive and diverse idea generation.

Cross-disciplinary Learning: Engaging in varied disciplines, even those unrelated to one’s primary field, can lead to breakthroughs. For instance, someone in a creative technology-related job might benefit immensely from understanding the principles of art or anthropology, leading to innovative solutions that blend different knowledge domains.

Enhanced Adaptability: Exposure to varied environments and cultures cultivates adaptability, a crucial trait for creativity. Adapting to different settings, languages, or traditions trains the mind to be more flexible, allowing it to pivot and reframe ideas more effortlessly.

Practical Steps to Modify Your Environment for Enhanced Creativity

Travel, Even Locally: While international trips are enlightening, local excursions can be equally enriching. Explore new towns, parks, or cultural events in your vicinity. For those in creativity jobs, these local experiences can provide as much inspiration as a trip abroad.

Design Your Workspace: Modify your workspace periodically. Add plants, change the lighting, or introduce artworks from different cultures. A fresh environment can lead to new ideas.

Engage in Cultural Activities: Attend workshops, seminars, or courses introducing you to different art forms, philosophies, or sciences. Given today’s technology, even virtual events can offer deep dives into diverse worlds.

Read Widely: Books are portals to different worlds. Read across genres, cultures, and disciplines. The narratives, knowledge, and perspectives they offer can profoundly influence your creative thinking.

Collaborate with Diverse Teams: Engage in projects that involve team members from varied backgrounds and expertise. Their unique insights will enrich the creative process, offering solutions you might not have considered.

The environments we immerse ourselves in serve as more than mere backdrops; they shape our thoughts, ideas, and creative outputs. For those in creativity jobs or anyone seeking to enhance their imaginative prowess, embracing diverse surroundings and experiences isn’t just beneficial—it’s essential. Through varied encounters and open-minded exploration, we refine our ability to see, think, and create uniquely.

Daily Habits and Rituals

The power of routine is often underestimated in the world of creativity. While spontaneity has its merits, a structured daily regimen can serve as a foundation, providing stability and consistency. This discipline lets the mind focus, allowing creative thoughts to flow more freely. A well-crafted creativity plan integrates daily habits and rituals that nurture the imagination and provide a framework to channel and refine one’s ideas.

Techniques to Foster Daily Creative Growth

Journaling: A practice revered by many creative greats, journaling is a pathway to introspection. It offers a canvas to jot down thoughts, ideas, dreams, and reflections. Over time, these entries can be revisited, acting as a goldmine of inspiration. For those crafting a creativity plan, dedicating a few minutes each day to journaling can lead to significant breakthroughs.

Meditation: Meditation helps clear mental clutter, offering clarity and calm. For creatives, this state of tranquility can be the ideal backdrop against which new ideas emerge. Practicing mindfulness and staying present can tap into deeper reservoirs of imagination.

Deep Work Sessions: Coined by Cal Newport, ‘deep work’ refers to periods of intense, undistracted focus on a task. Incorporating such sessions into a creativity plan ensures dedicated time to work on projects without the interference of modern-day distractions, leading to higher productivity and innovative outcomes.

Gleaning Insights from History’s Creative Titans

Throughout history, many renowned creative minds have sworn by specific daily routines as part of their creativity plan:

Ludwig van Beethoven: The legendary composer began his day with a fresh brew from precisely 60 coffee beans. This precision and consistency in his morning ritual translated into his compositions. While you might not count coffee beans, having a consistent morning ritual can set a positive tone for the day.

Maya Angelou: The celebrated writer rented a local hotel room to write. She’d arrive at 6:30 AM, leaving by 2 PM. This practice of physically separating work from leisure can be integrated into one’s creativity plan by designating a specific space for creative endeavors.

Albert Einstein: Known for his daily walks, Einstein believed these strolls stimulated his mind. Incorporating short breaks or walks in your day can provide the necessary mental refreshment, sparking new ideas.

Crafting Your Personal Creative Blueprint

Drawing inspiration from these luminaries, one can craft a personalized creativity plan. While the specifics may differ, the essence remains—dedication, consistency, and a set of rituals that cater to one’s unique needs and preferences. Integrating these habits into daily life paves a flourishing creative journey.

Collaboration and Brainstorming in Creativity

A profound magic unfolds when individuals come together, pooling their unique experiences, knowledge, and insights. This convergence often leads to solutions and ideas that a single mind might overlook. The principle behind this is simple: diverse perspectives often yield more prosperous and varied creative outcomes. For instance, writing prompts for creativity in group settings can trigger a cascade of various ideas, where one person’s thought serves as a springboard for another’s innovation.

Effective Brainstorming Techniques and Avoiding Groupthink

Structured Sessions with Clear Objectives: For a brainstorming session to be productive, it’s crucial to have a clear agenda. Participants should know the problem at hand and the goal of the session.

Encourage Diverse Perspectives: Make it a point to invite individuals from different backgrounds and expertise levels. This diversity ensures a broader range of solutions. When using writing prompts for creativity, ensure they’re open-ended, allowing for varied interpretations.

Avoiding Groupthink: Groupthink, where individuals conform to the dominant perspective to maintain harmony, can stifle creativity. To prevent this, foster an environment where dissenting opinions are encouraged. Consider techniques like the “Six Thinking Hats” by Edward de Bono, which assigns specific roles or perspectives to participants, ensuring all angles are explored.

Anonymous Idea Submission: Sometimes, individuals hesitate to voice unconventional ideas for fear of judgment. Platforms allowing for anonymous submissions can mitigate this, ensuring every idea gets a fair hearing, no matter how out-of-the-box.

Harnessing Technology for Collaborative Creativity

In today’s digital age , geographical boundaries no longer limit collaboration. Numerous platforms and tools facilitate virtual brainstorming, ensuring creative collaboration is both seamless and effective:

Digital Whiteboards: Platforms like Miro or Mural allow teams to brainstorm in real time, offering features akin to a physical whiteboard but enhanced by technology’s capabilities.

Collaborative Writing Platforms: Tools like Google Docs or Notion enable multiple users to jot down ideas simultaneously. When using writing prompts for creativity, they are especially beneficial due to their capability for real-time feedback. They also enable collaborative editing.

Video Conferencing Tools: Platforms like Zoom or Microsoft Teams, beyond just facilitating meetings, can be pivotal in brainstorming sessions. Breakout rooms, for instance, allow teams to split into smaller groups for focused discussions.

Collaboration, when done right, can be a powerhouse for creativity. It amalgamates the strengths of individual minds, producing solutions that are both innovative and comprehensive. By leveraging effective brainstorming techniques, writing prompts for creativity, and modern technology, teams can harness the full potential of collective creativity, driving groundbreaking outcomes in the process.

Tools and Technologies to Boost Creativity

In the digital era, creativity writing and other forms of artistic expression have been tremendously augmented by innovative tools and platforms. These streamline the creative process and provide new avenues for exploration and representation.

Mind Mapping Software: Tools like XMind or MindMeister have revolutionized brainstorming. They allow individuals to visually organize thoughts, ideas, and information, facilitating a more precise understanding and fostering interconnected thinking.

Design Tools: Platforms such as Adobe Creative Cloud, which includes Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, have become indispensable in the world of graphic design, animation, and digital art . These tools have transformed creativity writing and visual storytelling, enabling artists to bring their visions to life with precision and flair.

Digital Writing Platforms: Websites and software like Scrivener, Google Docs, or Final Draft have redefined the writing process. They offer features such as real-time collaboration, extensive editing tools, and templates tailored to different genres.

Harnessing Technology While Maintaining Authenticity

While digital tools offer unprecedented advantages, it’s essential to use them judiciously to ensure the essence of an idea remains intact.

Limit Tool Usage: Avoid using every tool at your disposal. Understand your project’s requirements and choose tools that align with your objectives.

Digital Detox: Periodically disconnect. While tools aid in creativity writing and design, taking breaks helps in introspection, ensuring ideas remain genuine and grounded.

Balance with Analog: Sometimes, the tactile experience of writing with a pen on paper or sketching an idea can offer insights and nuances that digital means might miss.

Case Studies: Creative Triumphs with Digital Aids

Film Screenwriting: The critically acclaimed film “The Social Network” was written by Aaron Sorkin using Final Draft, a leading screenwriting software. This tool allowed for swift rewrites and character arc tracking, ensuring the screenplay’s format adhered to industry standards.

Book Creation: Author Neil Gaiman mentioned using Scrivener for some of his projects. The tool’s ability to organize complex narratives and character developments was pivotal in streamlining his creativity writing process.

Graphic Design Campaigns: Global brands like Nike and Apple regularly utilize the Adobe Suite for their campaigns. The software’s comprehensive toolkit ensures its visuals are captivating and convey the brand’s ethos effectively.

The synergy between creativity writing and modern tools has redefined the possible boundaries. However, the key lies in using these resources as enhancers, not replacements, for human imagination’s raw, unfiltered spark. With a balanced approach, the fusion of innate creativity and digital prowess can lead to groundbreaking creations.

Embracing Constraints as Catalysts for Creativity

While it may seem counterintuitive, constraints often act as powerful catalysts for creativity. Instead of stifling innovation, limitations challenge us to think differently, explore unconventional paths, and break away from the norm. When faced with boundaries, the mind becomes a creativity planner, meticulously devising strategies and solutions that might otherwise remain undiscovered in a world of endless possibilities.

Constraints: Breeding Grounds for Breakthroughs

Twitter’s Character Limit: Twitter’s iconic 280-character limit has redefined communication. This constraint has led to a unique style of concise and impactful messaging, turning the platform into a dynamic space for news, views, and storytelling.

The Post-it Note: In the late 1960s, Dr. Spencer Silver, a scientist at 3M, attempted to develop a super-strong adhesive. However, he ended up with a low-tack, reusable one. This “failure,” combined with a constraint—how to use a weaker bond beneficially—led to the invention of the Post-it Note by his colleague Art Fry.

IKEA’s Flat Packaging: Constrained by transportation costs and the need for efficient storage, IKEA, with a creativity planner mindset, reimagined furniture design and packaging, leading to their iconic flat-pack products. This not only reduced costs but also transformed the way consumers shop for and assemble furniture.

Techniques to Introduce Constraints for Enhanced Innovation

Time Boxing: Allocate specific, limited time for brainstorming or executing a task using a creativity planner. This pressure often results in more focused and inventive solutions, as the mind is a proactive, creative planner.

Resource Limitation: Intentionally limit resources, be it in terms of materials, budget, or tools. This forces the team or individual to think critically about optimal usage and innovative alternatives.

Rule-based Constraints: Set specific rules for a project. For example, if working on a design task, limit the color palette or the types of shapes that can be used.

Reframe the Problem: Redefine the problem statement or the project’s objective. Looking at a challenge from a different angle or scope can often introduce constraints that lead to novel solutions.

Embracing constraints means upholding ambition and vision. It means pivoting the approach, channeling the essence of a creativity planner, and viewing these constraints as unique opportunities for groundbreaking innovation. By intentionally integrating limitations or celebrating the ones naturally present, one can unlock a treasure trove of creative potential that can redefine paradigms and set new benchmarks.

Continuous Learning and Feedback for Creativity

In the world of creativity, the quest for knowledge is infinite. Even someone at the zenith of their career, like a director of creativity, must wear the hat of a perpetual student. The ever-evolving landscape of art, design, technology, and culture necessitates continuous learning.

This drive to learn helps acquire new perspectives, tools, and techniques, ensuring the creative work remains relevant, fresh, and cutting-edge. More than developing new skills, being an eternal student fosters humility, curiosity, and adaptability—indispensable to any creative professional.

The Dual Facets of Feedback: Affirmation and Refinement

Feedback is the mirror that reflects the impact and efficacy of a creative endeavor. Both praise and criticism play crucial roles, as observed by a director of creativity:

Positive Feedback: While affirmation boosts confidence and validates direction, it also provides insights into what resonates with the audience. A director of creativity, despite their expertise, can gain valuable insights about what aspects of a project were particularly impactful or evocative.

Critical Feedback: While receiving constructive criticism can be challenging, it is the crucible in which raw ideas are refined into masterpieces. It sheds light on areas of improvement, potential oversights, or elements that might not align with the intended message or vision.

Actively Harnessing Feedback for Creative Growth

Open Channels for Feedback: Whether you’re a budding artist or a director of creativity at a renowned firm, make it known that you’re open to feedback. This can be through regular review sessions, feedback forms, or an open-door policy.

Diverse Reviewers: Seek feedback from a varied audience. Colleagues, mentors, friends, or even strangers can offer fresh perspectives. Based on their background and expertise, each group will have unique insights.

Structured Feedback Mechanisms: Instead of vague queries like “What do you think?”, ask specific questions. For instance, “Does the color palette convey the intended mood?” or “Was the narrative clear and engaging?”

Reflect and Integrate: Once feedback is received, don’t rush to make changes. Reflect on the inputs, discern which ones align with your vision, and then integrate them thoughtfully. Even if not directly applied, every feedback offers a learning opportunity.

For a creative individual, the journey of learning and refinement never truly ends. Whether you’re starting out or hold the title of director of creativity, the twin forces of continuous learning and feedback are pivotal. They ensure that creativity remains a dynamic dance of expression, constantly evolving, continually growing, and forever pushing boundaries.

What differentiates creativity from innovation?

Creativity refers to generating new and unique ideas, while innovation is about implementing these ideas into practical solutions or products.

How does one’s mindset impact creativity?

A growth mindset, as opposed to a fixed mindset , allows individuals to embrace challenges, learn from failures, and be more open to exploring new ideas, all of which are essential for fostering creativity.

How can I handle criticisms constructively?

Treat criticisms as learning opportunities, discern the constructive elements, and use them to refine your ideas. Remember, feedback is essential for growth.

How do different surroundings influence creativity?

Varied environments introduce you to new cultures, experiences, and disciplines, enriching your perspective and broadening your creative horizons.

Are there practical steps to change my environment for boosting creativity?

Yes, you can travel, engage in cultural exchanges, attend workshops in unfamiliar disciplines, or even rearrange your workspace to introduce a fresh ambiance.

Learn How To Develop Launch-Ready Creative Products

Download  How to Turn Your Creativity into a Product,  a  FREE  starter kit.

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Apple Company’s Creativity: Approaches and Tools Case Study

Four approaches to creativity, advice to apple, tools for creative problem solving.

Creativity can be examined in a great number of ways. For this paper, the four approaches of creativity will be utilized. They consist of imagination, improvement, investment, and incubation. The imagination-based approach to creativity is focused on the process of creating new ideas, approaches, and other previously unseen concepts. This is the type of creativity that has been associated with Apple products. It would apply to the company’s products that are covered in the paper and those that brought them later success such as iPhone and iPad (Zhu, Song, Ni, Ren & Li, 2016).

The second approach to creativity is called improvement, and its focus lies in the creation of better alternatives to existing ideas and products. Often creative and revolutionary ideas are presented in an unrefined form. This is natural due to there not being a point of reference for what would make a great product. Improvement might be represented through the refinement of the idea itself, or just through the streamlining of the delivery process. For example, Google was not the first search engine, but it improved on the ideas of its competitors in such a way that it soon became the standard in that field (Schmidt & Rosenberg, 2014).

The third approach to creativity is called investment, and it shares a similarity with imagination. The focus of investment is the competitive creation of ideas with the goal of being the first company to provide a new type of product. This process involves the exploitation of competitors’ weaknesses, the fast development of the product, and a general focus on the competitiveness of the company. This type of competition can be seen in the newly formed industry of Virtual Reality where companies such as Oculus and HTC are constantly competing to introduce innovations before the competitor (Gregory, 2017).

The last approach to creativity is called Incubation, and it focuses on fostering creative thinking through cooperation and coordination of teamwork. Collective thinking allows people to refine each other’s ideas which can result in previously unforeseen concepts. For example, the animation studio Pixar has a culture based on open communication between all members of the staff and management. If anything is wrong with the current project, anyone from the team can bring it up and address it. This way, the company has managed to establish itself as not only one of the most consistently high-quality animation studios but also as one of the most creative in the industry (Catmull & Wallace, 2014).

The date of the case study takes place before the company saw great revitalization due to the success of the iPhone, but it allows the reader to see the issue that was plaguing the company. Their approach to creativity was almost entirely based on imagination. Despite being the first company to create a lot of modern computing staples, they have failed to capitalize on the majority of them. Therefore, the company should have attempted to improve on the innovative ideas they created, which is precisely what the company did later.

The study was done in 2004. At the time the cellphone market has begun to stagnate with innovation mostly coming from smaller form factors for the devices, rather than functionality, or processing capability. The Apple Newton was the first portable electronic touchscreen device that was focused on providing a variety of everyday functions such as note-taking, schedule management, and others. The phones of the era sometimes included similar functionality, but the limited screen space and unintuitive controls prevented phones from being the default device for these functions. By combining the concepts introduced in Apple Newton and cellular phone technology, Apple could greatly improve on the existing ideas, while also creating a new one.

History shows that although smartphones have existed before the iPhone, the interest they generated was minuscule in comparison to the impact of the iPhone. Apple has quickly become the number one phone manufacturer and would stay there until Samsung and Google created a more open and affordable alternative. While the company still finds success in the improvement approach, the products have slowly lost the interest of the general public. The new models of the iPhone and iPad severely lack innovative features, and the proprietary nature of Apple devices has gone overboard with the removal of such a standardized feature as a headphone jack (Hisrich & Ramadani, 2017).

The phone market is again stagnant. The majority of designs are identical to each other and provide essentially the same feature set with differences in processing power, screen quality, and camera resolution. Perhaps, the company could put its development into more innovative fields. The virtual and Augmented reality is currently in its early days, and its commercial potential is still unproven.

Apple has the capability of pushing any such technology to the consumer level. The current prices for Apple devices indicate that their user base can afford expensive electronics on an almost annual basis and the loyalty of the company’s customers could be utilized to spread positive word of mouth about the product even before it comes out. It is not to say that Apple can capitalize even on poor products, the example of Apple watch shows that there is a limit to what people will buy. However, the level of excitement for a commercial level Apple VR or AR product is likely to outshine any of its current and possible future competitors in that field (Gregory, 2017).

The company would have to come up with creative ideas that could solve the current problems in those industries. Virtual reality currently requires a lot of processing power and can be limited by the wires and additional devices required for operation. However, the solutions for these problems are already being explored, and with Apple’s track record of creating powerful and well-designed electronics, it is likely to find a solution. Augmented reality is more limited by public perception rather than technology.

A simple augmented reality device was created by Google a few years ago. Known as Google Glass, it allowed the users to receive messages, browse the web, and utilize other functions on the surface of glasses. Unfortunately, the project received a lot of bad publicity which created a barrier for any company looking to introduce a similar device. However, some years have passed, and Apple could revitalize the idea by learning from the mistakes Google made during its run.

A great number of tools exist for fostering creative problem-solving. TRIZ is one of the more commonly used ones. It is a theory of creative problem solving focused specifically on problems related to patents of inventions. It is based on three ideas. The first is that problems and solutions can reoccur in scientific and industrial cases. The second is that patterns of technical evolution also reoccur. The last one is that innovations often use scientific effects unfamiliar to their fields. This theory applies to Apple as they have filed for a great number of patents and most of their successful innovative products are based on ideas from outside their industries. This is also the tool they are using most often due to their policy of proprietary devices that need patents to stay unique.

Brainstorming is a different tool based on gathering ideas from a group of people. It is a relatively simple technique that is governed by two principles: judgment should be deferred, and that quantity is the goal. All of the ideas of the group are gathered without judgment. Sometimes individual ideas are combined to create new ones. Ideas are elaborated upon, and the best of them are selected. The current conservative nature of Apple’s products suggests a hesitation to approach new ideas within the company.

Creativity is often essential for business. However, the different approaches to creativity might lead to different results. The case study of Apple suggested that the company was primarily using the imagination as their creative approach, but later benefited from moving to improvement. History has shown that it was greatly beneficial.

Catmull, E., & Wallace, A. (2014). Creativity, Inc . New York, NY: Random House.

Gregory, J. (2017). Virtual reality . North Mankato, MN: Cherry Lake.

Hisrich, R., & Ramadani, V. (2017). Effective entrepreneurial management . New York, NY: Springer International Publishing.

Schmidt, E., & Rosenberg, J. (2014). How Google works . New York, NY: Grand Central Publishing.

Zhu, X., Song, B., Ni, Y., Ren, Y., & Li, R. (2016). Business trends in the digital era . Singapore: Springer Singapore.

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IvyPanda. (2021, July 21). Apple Company's Creativity: Approaches and Tools. https://ivypanda.com/essays/apple-companys-creativity-approaches-and-tools/

"Apple Company's Creativity: Approaches and Tools." IvyPanda , 21 July 2021, ivypanda.com/essays/apple-companys-creativity-approaches-and-tools/.

IvyPanda . (2021) 'Apple Company's Creativity: Approaches and Tools'. 21 July.

IvyPanda . 2021. "Apple Company's Creativity: Approaches and Tools." July 21, 2021. https://ivypanda.com/essays/apple-companys-creativity-approaches-and-tools/.

1. IvyPanda . "Apple Company's Creativity: Approaches and Tools." July 21, 2021. https://ivypanda.com/essays/apple-companys-creativity-approaches-and-tools/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Apple Company's Creativity: Approaches and Tools." July 21, 2021. https://ivypanda.com/essays/apple-companys-creativity-approaches-and-tools/.

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Home » Blog » General » Practical Video Tools for Fostering Creative Problem-Solving in High Schools

Practical Video Tools for Fostering Creative Problem-Solving in High Schools

As high schools strive to prepare students for the challenges of the future, creative problem-solving skills have become increasingly important. These skills not only enable students to think critically and find innovative solutions to complex problems, but also equip them with the ability to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Social emotional learning (SEL) plays a crucial role in fostering creative problem-solving skills. By developing students’ self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making, SEL provides a strong foundation for students to tackle problems creatively and collaboratively.

One effective way to incorporate SEL into high school classrooms is through the use of practical video tools. These tools offer engaging and interactive learning experiences, providing visual representations of problem-solving strategies and promoting critical thinking and decision-making skills. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of using videos for teaching creative problem-solving in high schools and recommend some video tools that can enhance the learning experience.

Benefits of Using Videos for Teaching Creative Problem-Solving

Using videos as a teaching tool offers several benefits for fostering creative problem-solving skills in high school students:

Engaging and Interactive Learning Experience

Videos capture students’ attention and make learning more enjoyable. With their dynamic visuals, sound effects, and storytelling elements, videos create an immersive experience that keeps students engaged throughout the lesson. Interactive videos, which allow students to actively participate and make choices, further enhance the learning experience by promoting critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Visual Representation of Problem-Solving Strategies

Visual representation is a powerful tool for understanding complex concepts. Videos can visually demonstrate problem-solving strategies, breaking them down into step-by-step processes that are easier for students to grasp. By seeing these strategies in action, students can better understand how to apply them in real-life situations.

Promotes Critical Thinking and Decision-Making Skills

Videos often present scenarios that require students to think critically and make decisions. By analyzing the presented problem, considering different perspectives, and evaluating possible solutions, students develop their critical thinking and decision-making skills. Videos can also provide opportunities for students to reflect on their own problem-solving processes and learn from their experiences.

Appeals to Different Learning Styles

Every student has a unique learning style, and videos cater to a variety of preferences. Visual learners benefit from the visual representation of problem-solving strategies, while auditory learners engage with the audio elements of videos. Kinesthetic learners can benefit from interactive videos that allow them to actively participate and make choices. By incorporating videos into the classroom, teachers can address the diverse learning needs of their students.

Key Considerations for Selecting Video Tools

When selecting video tools for teaching creative problem-solving in high schools, it is important to consider the following key factors:

Age-Appropriate Content

Ensure that the video content is suitable for high school students, both in terms of complexity and relevance. The videos should align with the students’ developmental stage and address the specific problem-solving skills they need to develop.

Clear and Concise Explanations

Choose video tools that provide clear and concise explanations of problem-solving strategies. The videos should break down complex concepts into easily understandable steps, allowing students to follow along and apply the strategies effectively.

Interactive Features and Activities

Look for video tools that offer interactive features and activities. These can include quizzes, simulations, or decision-making scenarios that actively engage students in the learning process. Interactive elements encourage students to think critically, make choices, and reflect on their problem-solving approaches.

Accessibility and User-Friendly Interface

Ensure that the video tools are accessible to all students, including those with disabilities or diverse learning needs. The interface should be user-friendly, allowing students to navigate the videos easily and access additional resources or support materials if needed.

Recommended Video Tools for Teaching Creative Problem-Solving in High Schools

Here are three video tools that are highly recommended for teaching creative problem-solving in high schools:

Tool 1: [Name of Video Tool]

Tool 2: [name of video tool], tool 3: [name of video tool], tips for maximizing the effectiveness of video tools.

To maximize the effectiveness of video tools for teaching creative problem-solving in high schools, consider the following tips:

Incorporate videos into lesson plans and curriculum

Integrate videos into your lesson plans and curriculum to ensure that they align with the learning objectives and complement other instructional materials. Use videos as a starting point for discussions and activities that encourage students to apply problem-solving strategies in different contexts.

Encourage active participation and reflection

Promote active participation by pausing the videos at key points and asking students to reflect on the presented problem or make predictions about the next steps. Encourage students to share their thoughts, ideas, and strategies with their peers, fostering collaboration and a deeper understanding of problem-solving processes.

Provide opportunities for discussion and collaboration

Facilitate meaningful discussions and collaborative activities that allow students to share their perspectives, learn from each other, and explore different problem-solving approaches. Encourage students to ask questions, challenge assumptions, and consider alternative solutions.

Monitor student progress and provide feedback

Regularly assess students’ understanding and progress in creative problem-solving. Provide timely and constructive feedback that highlights their strengths and areas for improvement. Use the feedback to guide further instruction and support individual student needs.

Creative problem-solving skills are essential for high school students to succeed in the ever-changing world. By incorporating social emotional learning and practical video tools into the classroom, educators can effectively foster these skills and prepare students for the challenges they will face. Videos offer an engaging and interactive learning experience, visually representing problem-solving strategies, promoting critical thinking, and appealing to different learning styles. Explore the recommended video tools and start utilizing them in your high school classrooms to enhance creative problem-solving skills in your students.

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