You want to be more creative. How can you develop your creativity in Creative Problem Solving?

1 Understand the problem

The first step in CPS is to understand the problem that you want to solve. This means defining the goal, the context, the constraints, and the criteria for success. You can use tools such as brainstorming, mind mapping, or SWOT analysis to gather and organize information. Understanding the problem helps you focus your creativity on finding relevant and feasible solutions.

2 Generate ideas

The second step in CPS is to generate as many ideas as possible to solve the problem. This is where you can unleash your creativity and explore different possibilities. You can use techniques such as brainstorming, divergent thinking, lateral thinking, or SCAMPER to stimulate your imagination and generate original and diverse ideas. Generating ideas helps you expand your options and discover new perspectives.

3 Evaluate ideas

The third step in CPS is to evaluate the ideas that you have generated and select the best ones to pursue. This is where you need to apply your critical thinking and analytical skills to assess the strengths and weaknesses of each idea. You can use tools such as ranking, rating, pros and cons, or PMI to compare and contrast the ideas. Evaluating ideas helps you narrow down your choices and identify the most promising solutions.

4 Develop solutions

The fourth step in CPS is to develop the solutions that you have selected and refine them to make them more effective and practical. This is where you need to use your design and planning skills to transform your ideas into concrete actions and outcomes. You can use tools such as prototyping, testing, or SMART goals to develop and improve your solutions. Developing solutions helps you clarify your vision and prepare for implementation.

5 Implement solutions

The fifth step in CPS is to implement the solutions that you have developed and monitor their results and impacts. This is where you need to use your execution and evaluation skills to put your solutions into action and measure their performance and feedback. You can use tools such as action plans, checklists, or surveys to implement and review your solutions. Implementing solutions helps you achieve your goal and learn from your experience.

6 Reflect on the process

The sixth step in CPS is to reflect on the process that you have followed and identify what worked well and what could be improved. This is where you need to use your metacognition and self-regulation skills to analyze your own thinking and behavior and enhance your learning and growth. You can use tools such as journals, portfolios, or feedback loops to reflect and document your process. Reflecting on the process helps you develop your creativity and problem-solving skills for future challenges.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?