Creativity and Problem Solving Flashcards

Creativity and Problem Solving

  • Creativity: Thinking differently for marketing, product design, and advertising.

  • Routine Thinking: Thinking like everyone else.

  • Critical Thinking: Analyzing and using rational processes to solve problems.

  • Metacognition: Thinking about thinking.

Creative Thinking Exercises

  • Rebus (Lateral Thinking): Puzzles using words, names, or expressions.

  • Two-Dimensional Exercises: Sodukos, riddles, word puzzles.

  • Advanced Exercises: Three-dimensional puzzles.

Problem Solving

  • Minor Problems: Instinctive problem solving.

  • Major Problems:

    • Predictable: Slow run-up of circumstances (e.g., business growth).

    • Unexpected: Sudden events (e.g., fire, strike).

  • Problem: Issue with a defined solution.

  • Dilemma: Issue with no satisfactory solution.

Problem Solving Techniques

  • Force Field Analysis: Weighing forces for and against a decision (pros and cons).

  • SCAMPER: Creativity spark:

    • Substitute

    • Combine

    • Adapt

    • Modify

    • Put to new use

    • Eliminate

    • Reverse

  • Delphi Technique: Solution via group input (e.g., email) to prevent groupthink.

  • Indigenous Approach: Using local knowledge and traditions.

  • Howard Gardner’s Multiple Intelligences: Identifying individual strengths for effective learning.

Creativity in Business Context

  • Thinking differently.

  • Breaking down and rebuilding concepts.

  • Organizing thoughts and resources.

  • Gaining insight into problems.

  • Rejecting the obvious.

  • Differentiating from competitors.

Importance of Creativity in Business

  • Proactive future creation is essential versus past operations.

  • Change is necessary for survival.

  • Need to outmaneuver competitors.

  • Encourage intrapreneurship.

Four Pillar Approach to Creativity

  • Fluency: Generating different ideas.

  • Flexibility: Considering different viewpoints.

  • Originality: Developing unique ideas.

  • Elaborate: Adding detail to solutions.

Force Field Analysis Steps

  • Define the problem.

  • Define the change objective.

  • Identify driving forces.

  • Identify restraining forces.

  • Develop a change strategy.

Obstacles to Creative Thinking

  • Fear of voicing ideas.

  • Lack of sleep and stress.

  • Overrating logic.

  • Complacency.

  • Time constraints.

  • Self-doubt.

Indigenous Thinking

  • Local knowledge creates a competitive advantage.

  • Can be a threat in unfamiliar markets.

Problem Solving in Teamwork

  • Project and Conflict management are formal structures.