Course Outline
Introduction to Creative Problem Solving
- Gaining insight into creativity and creative thought processes
- The impact of creativity on problem-solving, innovation, and decision-making
- Recognizing barriers to creative thinking and strategies to overcome them
- The workflow of creative problem-solving: from identifying an issue to implementing a solution
Defining and Framing the Problem
- Distinguishing between symptoms and the underlying problem
- Crafting a clear, actionable problem statement
- Clarifying objectives, constraints, and desired outcomes
- Reframing problems to uncover new perspectives
Gathering and Analyzing Information
- Identifying relevant data and evidence
- Posing effective questions to deepen problem understanding
- Examining facts, assumptions, and fundamental causes
- Structuring information to facilitate creative analysis
Identifying Root Causes
- Looking beyond symptoms to uncover underlying causes
- Applying the 5 Why Method
- Constructing a Fishbone (Ishikawa) Diagram
- Utilizing cause-and-effect analysis to structure complex problems
- Selecting the most pertinent causes for further inquiry
Generating Creative Solutions and Alternatives
- Techniques for broad idea generation
- Employing divergent and convergent thinking
- Questioning assumptions and exploring alternative viewpoints
- Applying De Bono’s Six Thinking Hats
- Developing associations and unconventional solutions
- Hands-on exercises based on real business or organizational challenges
Evaluating and Selecting Solutions
- Setting criteria for evaluating ideas
- Objectively comparing alternatives
- Assessing feasibility, impact, risks, and resource requirements
- Using Scatter Diagrams and other analytical tools as needed
- Balancing creativity with practical business needs
Structured Problem Solving with the 8D Method
- Overview of the 8D problem-solving approach
- Defining the problem and assembling an effective problem-solving team
- Identifying and implementing corrective actions
- Verifying results and preventing recurrence
- Applying the method to a practical case study
From Idea to Action
- Converting selected solutions into actionable plans
- Defining responsibilities, resources, milestones, and deadlines
- Identifying potential implementation risks
- Monitoring progress and measuring outcomes
Introduction to Design Thinking
- Understanding the core principles of Design Thinking
- Empathizing with users and understanding 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
- Combining root-cause analysis, idea generation, evaluation, and action planning
- Working individually and/or in teams on trainer- or client-provided problems
- Presenting proposed solutions and receiving feedback
Retrospective and Continuous Improvement
- Reviewing the problem-solving process and results
- Identifying what worked, what did not, and what can be improved
- Creating an improvement plan
- Using the START / STOP / CONTINUE retrospective framework
- Identifying opportunities to apply creative thinking in everyday work
Workshop Summary
- Recap of key principles and techniques
- Personal action points
- Transfer of learning to current tasks and projects
- Final discussion and Q&A
Requirements
No prior experience is required.
Target Audience
- Individuals looking to enhance their understanding of creative thinking mechanisms and boost their 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