How can you use creative problem solving to identify workplace inefficiencies?

1 What is creative problem solving?

Creative problem solving (CPS) is a method that involves four main stages: clarify, ideate, develop, and implement. In each stage, you use different tools and techniques to define the problem, generate possible solutions, evaluate and refine them, and execute and monitor them. CPS helps you to use both your analytical and creative skills, as well as collaborate with others, to find the best way to solve a problem.

2 How to clarify the problem?

The first stage of CPS is to clarify the problem, which means to understand its root causes, scope, impact, and goals. To do this, you can use tools such as the 5 Whys, the Fishbone Diagram, or the Problem Statement. These tools help you to ask the right questions, identify the key factors, and articulate the problem clearly and concisely. By clarifying the problem, you can narrow down your focus and avoid wasting time and resources on irrelevant or superficial issues.

3 How to ideate possible solutions?

The second stage of CPS is to ideate possible solutions, which means to generate as many ideas as possible, without judging or filtering them. To do this, you can use tools such as Brainstorming, Brainwriting, or SCAMPER. These tools help you to unleash your imagination, explore different perspectives, and combine or modify existing ideas. By ideating possible solutions, you can expand your options and discover new and original ways to solve the problem.

4 How to develop the best solution?

The third stage of CPS is to develop the best solution, which means to evaluate and refine the ideas you have generated, and select the most feasible and effective one. To do this, you can use tools such as the PMI Chart, the Criteria Matrix, or the Pros and Cons List. These tools help you to compare and contrast the ideas, assess their strengths and weaknesses, and rank them according to your criteria. By developing the best solution, you can ensure that it meets your needs and expectations, and that it is realistic and actionable.

5 How to implement the solution?

The fourth and final stage of CPS is to implement the solution, which means to execute and monitor the solution you have developed, and measure its results and outcomes. To do this, you can use tools such as the Action Plan, the SMART Goals, or the Feedback Loop. These tools help you to plan and organize the steps, assign the roles and responsibilities, set the deadlines and indicators, and collect and analyze the data. By implementing the solution, you can achieve your goals, solve the problem, and learn from the experience.

By using creative problem solving to identify and overcome workplace inefficiencies, you can improve your performance, satisfaction, and innovation. You can also develop your critical and creative thinking skills, and enhance your collaboration and communication with others.

6 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?