Creative problem solving (CPS) is a skill that can help you tackle complex challenges, generate innovative solutions, and adapt to changing situations. But how do you apply CPS frameworks in your work? In this article, you will learn about some common CPS models and how to use them in different scenarios.
CPS is a process that involves four main stages: clarifying the problem, generating ideas, developing solutions, and implementing actions. Within each stage, there are various tools and techniques that can help you define, explore, evaluate, and execute your problem-solving strategy. CPS is not a linear or rigid method, but rather a flexible and iterative one that allows you to adjust and refine your approach as you go.
CPS is important because it can help you deal with uncertainty, ambiguity, and complexity in your work environment. By applying CPS frameworks, you can improve your critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration skills, as well as your ability to cope with change and uncertainty. CPS can also help you create value for your customers, stakeholders, and yourself by delivering innovative and effective solutions that meet their needs and expectations.
When selecting a CPS framework, you can choose from a variety of options that suit your preferences, goals, and context. The Osborn-Parnes model is one of the oldest and most widely used CPS frameworks, consisting of six steps: objective finding, fact finding, problem finding, idea finding, solution finding, and acceptance finding. Design Thinking is a human-centered and empathetic approach to problem solving, with five phases: empathize, define, ideate, prototype, and test. The Creative Problem Solving Institute (CPSI) model is a simplified and updated version of the Osborn-Parnes model with four stages: clarify, ideate, develop, and implement.
To apply a CPS framework, you must first define your problem statement, which should include the who, what, where, when, why, and how of your challenge or opportunity. Next, you need to gather relevant information to understand the context of the problem. After that, you can use techniques such as mind mapping or random word association to generate possible solutions. Then, you can evaluate and select solutions using techniques such as SWOT analysis or ranking and rating. Finally, you can implement and test solutions by using techniques such as prototyping or piloting.
A CPS framework is not a one-size-fits-all solution, but rather a guide that can be tailored to suit individual needs and circumstances. You can modify the stages or steps of your CPS framework, selecting the tools or techniques that work best for you and your problem within each stage or step. Additionally, you can adjust the time or resources allocated for each stage or step, depending on your preferences and goals. For example, if you need more user input or validation, you could spend more time on the empathize or prototype phases, or use more or less resources depending on your budget or scope.