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Ten Tactical Tips
for Creative Problem-Solving
by John Jay Daly
- It's vital to realize what creativity is. As a longtime student of creativity my favorite definition is this: "Looking at what everyone has seen -- then thinking what no one has thought." It's also
important to recognize "where" the creativity is being applied since "the place" is essential and often quite relevant.
- Individual geniuses are rare, so groups, when guided well, are more likely to arrive at solutions. However it's essential that problem-solvers spend as much time as is needed to define -- completely and
precisely the exact nature of what "The Problem" is. You don't want to solve the wrong problem.
- Be cautious that you are not working diligently to solve one or more symptoms of "The Problem."
- Be sure that all relevant parties who could reasonably be affected by the solution, or who are needed to implement it are involved at the most reasonable earliest stage. If everyone cannot be involved directly
then devise some reasonable commonsense method to get them involved, and keep 'em informed. Consider proportional representation, a later chance to vote on it after solution has been explained with full
rationale etc. In so far as possible try hard to achieve general consensus if not total unanimity.
- State with absolute clarity and completeness-- and eventually put it in writing -- exactly what the final agreed-to definition of "The Problem" is. Before any final solution is disseminated that you
obtain an agreement from affected parties that this written defiinition is fully acceptable. One way to do this is via a series of "Draft Agreements" which are then refined and adopted. Recognize in
advance that some parties do not want to solve "The Problem" so will erect subtle or obvious barriers such as delaying , etc. .
- Work through my "SCAMPER for the DRAPES" proven problem-solving formula. Sure, it's a silly phrase but it's memorable enough that you then can use it as I explain in my lively creativity workshops. I
always use it as a lively involvement exercise. Since I've had considerable experience , I would be happy to discuss how easy it is to retain me to help you. Ask about my explanatory notes and additional
Tipsheets.
- I've found that when assessing the suggested solution that "Simplicity" is usually a key element. Thus, if what's suggested is complicated, re-examine solution to explore how you can simplify it.
Another common successful element is "Boldness" -- so summon your courage to seek "breakthrough solutions."
- When using these exercises you will have gone thru some of the many necessary problem-solving stages such as:
Preparation/Incubation/ Illumination/Verification, etc that I will gladly explain in detail.
- Since one can measure the effectiveness of an idea by a group's resistance to it. one must usually sell hard and aggressively market the agreed-to solution so that its implementation is willingly (even eagerly)
accepted by all the affected parties. Defining problem is important but so is effective implementation.
- Since no solution lasts forever never cease refining initial result. Tweak parts of the implementation so that it's eventually improved to near perfection. At some point realize it may need to be abandoned.
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