Course Outline
Foundations of Creative Problem Solving
- Exploring the nature of creativity and creative thinking.
- The impact of creativity on problem-solving, innovation, and decision-making.
- Identifying barriers to creative thought and strategies to overcome them.
- The creative problem-solving journey: from problem identification to solution implementation.
Defining and Framing the Challenge
- Distinguishing between surface symptoms and the underlying problem.
- Developing clear, actionable problem statements.
- Clarifying objectives, constraints, and desired outcomes.
- Reframing problems to reveal new perspectives.
Information Gathering and Analysis
- Identifying relevant data and evidence.
- Posing effective questions to gain a deeper understanding of the issue.
- Examining facts, assumptions, and root drivers.
- Structuring information to support analytical creativity.
Root Cause Identification
- Moving past symptoms to uncover fundamental causes.
- Applying the 5 Whys Method
- Constructing a Fishbone (Ishikawa) Diagram
- Leveraging cause-and-effect analysis to organize complex issues.
- Prioritizing the most significant causes for further exploration.
Generating Creative Solutions and Alternatives
- Methods for broadening the scope of ideation.
- Balancing divergent and convergent thinking.
- Challenging assumptions and exploring alternative viewpoints.
- Utilizing De Bono’s Six Thinking Hats
- Cultivating associations and unconventional ideas.
- Practical exercises based on real-world business or organizational challenges.
Evaluating and Selecting Solutions
- Establishing criteria for idea assessment.
- Objectively comparing different alternatives.
- Evaluating feasibility, impact, risks, and resource requirements.
- Employing Scatter Diagrams and other analytical tools where suitable.
- Aligning creative ideas with practical business needs.
Structured Problem Solving via the 8D Method
- Overview of the 8D problem-solving approach
- Defining the problem and assembling an effective resolution team.
- Identifying and executing corrective actions.
- Validating results and preventing recurrence.
- Applying the methodology to a practical case study.
Transitioning from Idea to Action
- Converting selected solutions into executable plans.
- Defining responsibilities, resources, milestones, and timelines.
- Anticipating potential implementation risks.
- Tracking progress and measuring outcomes.
Introduction to Design Thinking
- 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 creative thinking and problem-solving techniques to practical challenges.
- Integrating root-cause analysis, ideation, evaluation, and action planning.
- Individual and team work on trainer- or client-provided scenarios.
- Presenting solutions and receiving constructive feedback.
Retrospective and Continuous Improvement
- Reflecting on the problem-solving process and results.
- Identifying successes, failures, and areas for enhancement.
- Developing a plan for improvement.
- Using the START / STOP / CONTINUE retrospective framework.
- Identifying opportunities to integrate creative thinking into daily work.
Workshop Conclusion
- Summary of key principles and techniques.
- Personal action items.
- Applying learning to current tasks and projects.
- Final discussion and Q&A session.
Requirements
No prior prerequisites are required.
Audience
- Professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of creative thinking mechanisms and improve their overall effectiveness.
Testimonials (3)
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
the exercises and the way the trainer was explaining
Sorana Haiduc - Ness
Course - Stress Management and Prevention
SMART Goal session was the most enjoyable part of the training that helped me manage my time properly. it helps me set my goal clearer and i could really see that setting SMART Goal can relate to almost everything such as Finance, Social Life, Career and Personal Growth.