Podcast
Questions and Answers
Which of the following is the MOST effective way to define a problem in the initial step of analytical problem-solving?
Which of the following is the MOST effective way to define a problem in the initial step of analytical problem-solving?
- Focusing solely on the opinions of key stakeholders.
- Presenting the problem as a disguised solution to save time.
- Stating the problem vaguely to allow for multiple interpretations.
- Explicitly stating the problem while differentiating facts from opinions. (correct)
In the process of generating alternative solutions, which approach would MOST likely lead to a comprehensive set of options?
In the process of generating alternative solutions, which approach would MOST likely lead to a comprehensive set of options?
- Quickly evaluating alternatives to narrow down the options early.
- Focusing on short-term solutions to address immediate concerns.
- Ensuring all involved individuals contribute to generating alternatives before any evaluation. (correct)
- Relying on the solutions that have been successful in the past.
When evaluating and selecting an alternative solution, what strategy would MOST comprehensively ensure the choice aligns with organizational objectives?
When evaluating and selecting an alternative solution, what strategy would MOST comprehensively ensure the choice aligns with organizational objectives?
- Focusing solely on the immediately apparent main effects of each solution.
- Choosing the alternative that is easiest and least costly to implement.
- Systematically evaluating alternatives relative to an optimal standard and organizational goals. (correct)
- Only evaluating alternatives relative to the perceived optimal standard.
During the implementation and follow-up phase of problem-solving, which action demonstrates the HIGHEST level of commitment to ensuring the solution's success?
During the implementation and follow-up phase of problem-solving, which action demonstrates the HIGHEST level of commitment to ensuring the solution's success?
Which of the following constraints in the analytical problem-solving model poses the MOST significant challenge in the problem definition stage?
Which of the following constraints in the analytical problem-solving model poses the MOST significant challenge in the problem definition stage?
Which of the following constraints on generating alternatives poses the MOST significant impediment to creative problem-solving?
Which of the following constraints on generating alternatives poses the MOST significant impediment to creative problem-solving?
During the evaluation and selection of alternatives, which factor, if overlooked, would MOST significantly undermine the decision-making process?
During the evaluation and selection of alternatives, which factor, if overlooked, would MOST significantly undermine the decision-making process?
Which implementation factor poses the MOST significant challenge to the successful adoption of a solution?
Which implementation factor poses the MOST significant challenge to the successful adoption of a solution?
What is a primary underlying assumption that impedes creative problem-solving?
What is a primary underlying assumption that impedes creative problem-solving?
Which element does NOT accurately represent a characteristic associated with the 'Incubation' type of creativity?
Which element does NOT accurately represent a characteristic associated with the 'Incubation' type of creativity?
What is the key focus of 'Improvement' as a type of innovation?
What is the key focus of 'Improvement' as a type of innovation?
What is the defining characteristic of 'Investment' as a type of innovation?
What is the defining characteristic of 'Investment' as a type of innovation?
What aspect defines the 'Imagination' approach to creativity?
What aspect defines the 'Imagination' approach to creativity?
Which action exemplifies capitalizing on the 'Incubation' approach to innovation within an organization?
Which action exemplifies capitalizing on the 'Incubation' approach to innovation within an organization?
What is a significant implication of 'Constancy' as a conceptual block?
What is a significant implication of 'Constancy' as a conceptual block?
How does 'Commitment' manifest as a conceptual block to problem-solving?
How does 'Commitment' manifest as a conceptual block to problem-solving?
What implications does 'Compression' have as a conceptual block in problem-solving?
What implications does 'Compression' have as a conceptual block in problem-solving?
How does 'Complacency' manifest as a conceptual block in innovative problem-solving?
How does 'Complacency' manifest as a conceptual block in innovative problem-solving?
How would you describe vertical thinking?
How would you describe vertical thinking?
Which attribute reflects lateral thinking?
Which attribute reflects lateral thinking?
How does the concept of 'multiple thinking languages' affect creative problem-solving?
How does the concept of 'multiple thinking languages' affect creative problem-solving?
What does 'perceptual stereotyping' entail when solving problems creatively?
What does 'perceptual stereotyping' entail when solving problems creatively?
How does 'ignoring commonalities' limit creative problem-solving?
How does 'ignoring commonalities' limit creative problem-solving?
As a stage in creative thought, what basically defines 'Preparation'?
As a stage in creative thought, what basically defines 'Preparation'?
What defines a 'direct analogy' in Synectics to improve problem definition?
What defines a 'direct analogy' in Synectics to improve problem definition?
What does the approach of 'reversing the definition' involve in creative problem-solving?
What does the approach of 'reversing the definition' involve in creative problem-solving?
In the context of creative problem-solving, which technique encourages deferring initial judgement to promote innovation?
In the context of creative problem-solving, which technique encourages deferring initial judgement to promote innovation?
What is 'morphological synthesis'?
What is 'morphological synthesis'?
Which strategy employs connecting words to force a relationship between otherwise unrelated elements in a problem?
Which strategy employs connecting words to force a relationship between otherwise unrelated elements in a problem?
What can best support creative problem-solving?
What can best support creative problem-solving?
In the context of fostering creativity, what is the primary role of 'sharp-pointed' prods, especially when monitoring and guiding teams?
In the context of fostering creativity, what is the primary role of 'sharp-pointed' prods, especially when monitoring and guiding teams?
Which strategy can management implement to foster creativity?
Which strategy can management implement to foster creativity?
When promoting creativity in groups, what should you NOT do?
When promoting creativity in groups, what should you NOT do?
Which action will enhance creativity??
Which action will enhance creativity??
What is the MOST effective initial action for a manager to foster creative problem-solving among team members?
What is the MOST effective initial action for a manager to foster creative problem-solving among team members?
Which of the following behavioral guidelines would MOST significantly help overcome conceptual blocks during problem-solving?
Which of the following behavioral guidelines would MOST significantly help overcome conceptual blocks during problem-solving?
When implementing new technologies to enhance problem definition, which approach ensures the MOST comprehensive enhancement of creativity?
When implementing new technologies to enhance problem definition, which approach ensures the MOST comprehensive enhancement of creativity?
In a scenario where a team is stuck finding new ideas, which of the following actions would MOST directly apply the principle of 'pulling people apart; putting people together' to stimulate creativity?
In a scenario where a team is stuck finding new ideas, which of the following actions would MOST directly apply the principle of 'pulling people apart; putting people together' to stimulate creativity?
A project manager wants to increase the consideration of different options, what constraints should they REMOVE?
A project manager wants to increase the consideration of different options, what constraints should they REMOVE?
In Step 1 of problem solving, what could one do? What would NOT ensure the best possible outcome?
In Step 1 of problem solving, what could one do? What would NOT ensure the best possible outcome?
A company has problems that need to be solved, what does NOT fall under Constraints?
A company has problems that need to be solved, what does NOT fall under Constraints?
In an organization prioritizing 'Improvement' as a form of innovation, what action might inadvertently hinder the creative process?
In an organization prioritizing 'Improvement' as a form of innovation, what action might inadvertently hinder the creative process?
In assessing the 'Investment' approach to innovation, what aspect might present a risk within a highly competitive market?
In assessing the 'Investment' approach to innovation, what aspect might present a risk within a highly competitive market?
Which scenario exemplifies how 'Constancy' as a conceptual block can obstruct effective problem-solving in a dynamic environment?
Which scenario exemplifies how 'Constancy' as a conceptual block can obstruct effective problem-solving in a dynamic environment?
What strategy would MOST effectively encourage lateral thinking in problem-solving sessions?
What strategy would MOST effectively encourage lateral thinking in problem-solving sessions?
A global team is struggling with perceptual stereotyping while trying to solve logistical issues, which action would be MOST effective in broadening their perspectives?
A global team is struggling with perceptual stereotyping while trying to solve logistical issues, which action would be MOST effective in broadening their perspectives?
Flashcards
Problem Definition: Step 1
Problem Definition: Step 1
Differentiate between fact and opinion.
Generate Alternative Solutions: Step 2
Generate Alternative Solutions: Step 2
Postpone evaluating alternatives. Be sure all involved individuals generate alternatives.
Evaluate and Select an Alternative: Step 3
Evaluate and Select an Alternative: Step 3
Evaluate relative to an optimal standard. Evaluate systematically. Evaluate relative to goals.
Implement and Follow Up: Step 4
Implement and Follow Up: Step 4
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Step 1 Constraints
Step 1 Constraints
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Step 2 Constraints
Step 2 Constraints
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Step 3 Constraints
Step 3 Constraints
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Step 4 Constraints
Step 4 Constraints
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Conceptual Blocks Definition
Conceptual Blocks Definition
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Incubation
Incubation
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Imagination
Imagination
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Improvement
Improvement
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Investment
Investment
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Constancy
Constancy
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Commitment
Commitment
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Compression
Compression
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Complacency
Complacency
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Vertical Thinking
Vertical Thinking
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Lateral Thinking
Lateral Thinking
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Perceptual Stereotyping
Perceptual Stereotyping
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Ignoring Commonalities
Ignoring Commonalities
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Complacency
Complacency
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Stages In Creative Thought
Stages In Creative Thought
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Improve Problem Definition
Improve Problem Definition
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Types of Analogies
Types of Analogies
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Elaborate the definition
Elaborate the definition
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Reverse the definition
Reverse the definition
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Combine unrelated attributes
Combine unrelated attributes
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Brainstorming Rule #1
Brainstorming Rule #1
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Brainstorming Rule #2
Brainstorming Rule #2
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Brainstorming Rule #3
Brainstorming Rule #3
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Brainstorming Rule #4
Brainstorming Rule #4
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Morphological Synthesis: Step 1 & 2
Morphological Synthesis: Step 1 & 2
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Morphological Synthesis Steps 3 & 4
Morphological Synthesis Steps 3 & 4
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Relational Algorithm
Relational Algorithm
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Problem Solving Advice
Problem Solving Advice
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Creativity Principle #1
Creativity Principle #1
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Creativity Principle #2
Creativity Principle #2
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Creativity Principle #3
Creativity Principle #3
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Putting People Apart/Together Guideline
Putting People Apart/Together Guideline
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Reward Multiple Roles Guideline
Reward Multiple Roles Guideline
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Study Notes
Learning Objectives
- Increase proficiency in analytical problem-solving
- Recognize personal conceptual blocks
- Enhance creativity by overcoming conceptual blocks
- Foster innovation among others
A Model of Problem-Solving
- Step 1: Define the Problem
- Differentiate fact from opinion.
- Specify underlying causes.
- Involve everyone for information.
- State the problem explicitly.
- Identify the violated standard.
- Determine the responsible party whom the problem belongs to.
- Avoid framing the problem as a disguised solution.
- Step 2: Generate Alternative Solutions
- Postpone evaluating alternatives initially.
- Ensure that all relevant individuals contribute to generating alternatives.
- Specify alternatives that align with established goals.
- Consider both short- and long-term solutions.
- Develop solutions by building on existing ideas.
- Specifically create alternatives that directly address and solve the problem.
- Step 3: Evaluate and Select an Alternative
- Evaluate alternatives in relation to an ideal standard.
- Conduct a systematic evaluation.
- Assess alternatives based on goals.
- Analyze both main and side effects.
- Clearly articulate the chosen alternative.
- Step 4: Implement and Follow Up on the Solution
- Implement the solution at the appropriate time and in the correct order.
- Offer opportunities for feedback.
- Secure acceptance.
- Establish a continuous monitoring system.
- Evaluate the solution based on its resolution of the problem.
Constraints on the Analytical Problem-Solving Model
- Step 1: Defining the problems
- Lack of agreement on the problem.
- Acceptance of problem definition not always occurring.
- Confusion between symptoms and the actual problem.
- Confusing information clouds the issue.
- Step 2: Generating Alternatives
- Alternatives are assessed as soon as they are suggested.
- A limited number of potential alternatives is typically known.
- The first satisfactory solution is often accepted.
- Alternatives tend to be based on past successes.
- Step 3: Evaluating and Selecting an Alternative
- There's limited information available about the options.
- The search for information happens locally.
- Other factors restrict the information's nature.
- Gathering information is expensive.
- The best alternatives are not always clear.
- Step 4: Implementation and Follow Up
- Acceptance isn't guaranteed.
- Resistance to change exists.
- Uncertainty surrounds which aspects of the solution need monitoring.
- Political and organizational dynamics demand management.
- Effective implementation to resolve the problem takes time
Impediments to Creative Problem-Solving
- Most people see creativity as one-dimensional.
- Nearly everyone has mental blocks which limit their creativity.
Conceptual Blocks
- Four approaches to creativity can be inhibited.
- Mental constraints limit problem definition.
- Percy Spencer's Magnetron led to the microwave invention.
- Spence Silver's Glue resulted in Post-It Notes.
- Constancy can hinder problem-solving, as consistency may stifle creativity.
- Commitment means current issues are seen as variations of older ones.
- Compression involves the failure to filter unnecessary info, or find necessary info, including artificial constraints.
- Complacency involves not filtering out irrelevant information or finding needed information and/or artificial contraints
DeBono’s Ways of Thinking
- Vertical thinking is continuous, choosy, stable, and analytic while searching for what is right and where the idea came from for idea development.
- Lateral thinking is discontinuous, adaptable with changes, unstable, and provocative while searching for what is different and to discover where the idea is going.
Multiple Thinking Languages
- More languages available to problem solvers result in more creative solutions.
- Words
- Symbols
- Sensory, like smell
- Feelings and emotions
- Visual imagery
Perceptual Stereotyping
- Individuals define current issues using past problems.
Ignoring Commonalities
- Creativity declines when people struggle to connect seemingly different problems.
Examples of Complacency
- Includes lack of inquisitiveness
- Such as the unwillingness to ask questions
- Bias against thinking
- Such as an inclination to avoid doing mental work
Stages in Creative Thought
- Preparation
- Incubation
- Illumination
- Verification
Ways to Improve Problem Definition
- Synectics: Make the strange familiar or vice versa.
- Use personal, direct, symbolic, and fantasy analogies.
- Elaborate using 2 plausible definitions, by thinking in plurals.
- Reverse the definition, or turn the problem around.
Ways to Generate More Alternatives
- Defer judgment by brainstorming.
- Expand current alternatives with subdivision.
- Combine unrelated attributes using relational algorithm and morphological synthesis.
Rules of Brainstorming
- Never evaluate ideas.
- Encourage unconventional ideas.
- Prioritize the amount of ideas before their value.
- Build on other peoples ideas
Morphological Synthesis
- Isolate and write down the problem.
- Attributes of the problem are listed
- List the various alternatives to each attribute
- Select different alternatives from the various listed attributes and combine them
Relational Algorithm
- Apply connecting words forcing a relationship between two elements in a problem
Hints to Facilitate Creative Problem-Solving
- Give yourself relaxation time.
- Find a place to think.
- Discuss ideas with others.
- Seek input on problems.
- Read widely to gain new knowledge.
- Evade “idea-killers” (negative people).
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Description
Learn a structured approach to analytical problem-solving. Recognize personal conceptual blocks that hinder your progress. Enhance your creativity by overcoming these blocks and fostering innovation in problem-solving among your teammates.
