Course Outline
Introduction to Creative Problem Solving
- Gaining an understanding of creativity and the nature of creative thinking
- The function of creativity in problem solving, innovation, and decision-making
- Recognising barriers to creative thought and strategies for overcoming them
- The creative problem-solving workflow: from issue identification to solution implementation
Defining and Framing the Problem
- Distinguishing between surface-level symptoms and the core problem
- Crafting a clear, actionable problem statement
- Identifying key objectives, constraints, and desired results
- Reframing issues to uncover new perspectives
Gathering and Analyzing Information
- Pinpointing relevant data and evidence
- Posing effective questions to gain deeper understanding of the issue
- Investigating facts, underlying assumptions, and fundamental causes
- Structuring information to facilitate creative analysis
Identifying Root Causes
- Looking beyond symptoms to uncover underlying causes
- Implementing the 5 Why Method
- Constructing a Fishbone (Ishikawa) Diagram
- Utilising cause-and-effect analysis to structure complex issues
- Selecting the most pertinent causes for further investigation
Generating Creative Solutions and Alternatives
- Techniques for brainstorming a broad range of ideas
- The interplay of divergent and convergent thinking
- Questioning assumptions and exploring alternative viewpoints
- Applying De Bono’s Six Thinking Hats
- Developing associations and unconventional approaches
- Practical exercises based on real-world business or organisational challenges
Evaluating and Selecting Solutions
- Setting criteria for assessing proposed ideas
- Objectively comparing different alternatives
- Assessing feasibility, impact, risks, and resource requirements
- Employing Scatter Diagrams and other analytical tools where suitable
- Striking a balance between creativity and practical business needs
Structured Problem Solving with the 8D Method
- Overview of the 8D problem-solving approach
- Defining the issue and assembling an effective problem-solving team
- Identifying and executing corrective actions
- Verifying outcomes and preventing recurrence
- Applying the methodology to a practical case study
From Idea to Action
- Converting selected solutions into actionable plans
- Defining responsibilities, resources, milestones, and deadlines
- Recognising potential risks during implementation
- Tracking progress and measuring outcomes
Introduction to Design Thinking
- Comprehending the principles of Design Thinking
- Empathising with users and grasping their needs
- Defining the challenge from the user's perspective
- Ideation, prototyping, and testing solutions
- Applying Design Thinking to ambiguous and complex problems
Integrated Creative Problem-Solving Workshop
- Applying selected creative thinking and problem-solving techniques to a practical challenge
- Integrating root-cause analysis, idea generation, evaluation, and action planning
- Working individually and/or in teams on problems provided by the trainer or client
- Presenting proposed solutions and receiving constructive feedback
Retrospective and Continuous Improvement
- Reviewing the problem-solving process and its outcomes
- Identifying successful strategies, areas for improvement, and lessons learned
- Developing a plan for continuous improvement
- Utilising the START / STOP / CONTINUE retrospective framework
- Identifying opportunities to integrate creative thinking into daily work
Workshop Summary
- Recap of key principles and techniques
- Personal action points for future application
- Transferring learning to current tasks and projects
- Final discussion and Q&A session
Requirements
No specific prerequisites are required.
Audience
- Individuals seeking to expand their understanding of the mechanics of creative thinking and boost their overall effectiveness
Testimonials (4)
Meeting efficiency is something that's fairly "basic", but not thought about a lot and with really large implications on people/company time. Understanding these best practices and keeping them top-of-mind will be of immediate help.
Dan Moffatt - Chris Courtemanche
Course - Personal Efficiency and Managing Meetings
Provided and explained very clearly a lot of foundational concepts, which fit well with the team's level of learning. The exercises were very engaging and I believe my team were comfortable and participated very well. Coordinating with the trainer as well was very seamless.
Christlan Tolentino - Canadian Blood Services
Course - Critical Thinking
I especially appreciated the instructor’s ability to give thorough, well-explained answers to questions specific to my personal situation.
HASAN TAHA URLU - Huber Turkiye
Course - Assertiveness
the exercises and the way the trainer was explaining