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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
 7 Hours

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