Creative Problem-Solving Strategies

Study Notes

Enables development of truly new solutions that make a company stand out
Helps to get to the root cause of problems instead of just addressing the symptoms
Allows to anticipate and avoid potential roadblocks or unintended consequences
Facilitates development of fresh strategies that challenge the status quo and create positive change

Believe in your own creativity
Listen to your instincts and trust your gut feelings
Step out of your comfort zone to challenge your usual ways of thinking
Define the problem clearly and gather all important information
Try different approaches, such as using analogies, drawing pictures, or role-playing
Keep looking for better solutions and have an open mind
Believe in your own ideas and have confidence in them
Brainstorm with others to collaborate and build on each other's thoughts
Take action and make a plan to put your ideas into practice

Brainstorming: gathering a diverse group and encouraging a free flow of ideas without judgment
Mind Mapping: visually mapping out the problem and potential solutions through diagrams
"What If" Questions: challenging assumptions by asking "What if" questions
SCAMPER: using a checklist to transform existing ideas (Substitute, Combine, Adapt, Modify, Put to another use, Eliminate, Reverse)
Random Input: introducing random words or objects to spark new connections
Role-Playing: viewing the problem through different lenses to reveal new perspectives

Fear of Failure: don't be afraid to try new things and learn from mistakes
Following the Crowd: challenge common ways of thinking instead of just going with the flow
Rigid Thinking: look for new uses for things beyond their intended purpose
Judging Too Soon: let ideas flow without evaluation during the idea stage

Accept Risk: treating failures as learning opportunities and encouraging experimentation
Value Diversity: bringing together people with different backgrounds and viewpoints
Provide Resources: giving people time, space, and tools for creative pursuits
Lead by Example: participating in creative activities yourself as a leader
Recognize Creativity: praising and rewarding creative efforts and ideas