Course Outline
Introduction to Creative Problem Solving
- Understanding creativity and the mechanics of creative thinking
- The role of creativity in problem-solving, innovation, and decision-making
- Identifying barriers to creative thinking and strategies for overcoming them
- The creative problem-solving cycle: from issue identification to solution implementation
Defining and Framing the Problem
- Distinguishing between symptoms and the core problem
- Developing a clear, actionable problem statement
- Identifying objectives, constraints, and desired outcomes
- Reframing problems to uncover new perspectives
Gathering and Analyzing Information
- Identifying relevant information and supporting evidence
- Posing effective questions to gain a deeper understanding of the problem
- Exploring facts, assumptions, and underlying causes
- Organising information to support creative analysis
Identifying Root Causes
- Moving beyond surface symptoms to identify fundamental causes
- Applying the 5 Whys Method
- Constructing a Fishbone (Ishikawa) Diagram
- Utilising cause-and-effect analysis to structure complex issues
- Selecting the most significant causes for further investigation
Generating Creative Solutions and Alternatives
- Techniques for generating a broad range of ideas
- Utilising divergent and convergent thinking
- Challenging assumptions and exploring alternative viewpoints
- Applying De Bono’s Six Thinking Hats
- Developing associations and unconventional solutions
- Practical exercises based on real-world business or organisational challenges
Evaluating and Selecting Solutions
- Establishing criteria for evaluating ideas
- Objectively comparing alternatives
- Assessing feasibility, impact, risks, and resource requirements
- Using Scatter Diagrams and other analytical tools where appropriate
- Balancing creative innovation with practical business needs
Structured Problem Solving with the 8D Method
- Introduction to the 8D problem-solving approach
- Defining the problem and assembling an effective resolution team
- Identifying and implementing corrective actions
- Verifying results and preventing recurrence
- Applying the method to a practical case study
From Idea to Action
- Translating selected solutions into actionable plans
- Defining responsibilities, resources, milestones, and deadlines
- Identifying potential risks during implementation
- Monitoring progress and measuring results
Introduction to Design Thinking
- Understanding the core principles of Design Thinking
- Empathising with users to understand their needs
- Defining the challenge from the user’s perspective
- Ideating, prototyping, and testing solutions
- Using Design Thinking to address 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 problems provided by the trainer or the organisation
- Presenting proposed solutions and receiving feedback
Retrospective and Continuous Improvement
- Reviewing the problem-solving process and outcomes
- Identifying what worked, what did not, and areas for improvement
- Creating an improvement plan
- Using the START / STOP / CONTINUE retrospective framework
- Identifying opportunities to apply creative thinking in daily work
Workshop Summary
- Recap of key principles and techniques
- Personal action points
- Applying learning to current tasks and projects
- Final discussion and Q&A
Requirements
No prior prerequisites are required.
Target Audience
- Individuals seeking to deepen 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