Overview
This lecture covers creative thinking and problem solving in the business environment, focusing on techniques such as force field analysis and the Delphi technique that help generate and implement solutions.
Creative Thinking Concepts
- Creative thinking is generating new, original ideas to address challenges or create solutions.
- It involves resourcefulness, imagination, and cleverness to produce unique results.
- Creative thinking uses right-brain functions like imagination and insight.
Routine vs. Creative Thinking
- Routine thinking uses left-brain functions, focusing on logic and methodical approaches.
- Routine thinking repeats past solutions and achieves the same results.
- Creative thinking generates new ideas and explores unconventional solutions for better outcomes.
Conventional vs. Non-Conventional Solutions
- Conventional solutions are common, expected, and generally followed by most people.
- Non-conventional solutions are unique, creative, and not typically used; they challenge the norm.
Stimulating Creative Thinking in the Workplace
- Emphasize the importance of creative thinking to staff.
- Inspire staff to share new ideas; hold regular brainstorming workshops.
- Keep communication open via suggestion boxes; train staff in creative problem solving.
- Use mind maps, encourage job exchanges, and accommodate employee ideas.
- Encourage alternative methods and avoid making anyone feel unimportant.
Advantages of Creative Thinking in Business
- Enhances participation and idea generation among staff.
- Provides a competitive advantage with unique strategies and products.
- Solves complex problems more efficiently, saving time and money.
- Increases productivity, morale, and collaboration.
- Encourages adaptation to new technology and can lead to inventions that improve living standards.
Problem Solving Techniques
- Problem solving involves studying a situation, finding problems, and implementing solutions.
- Both creative and logical skills are needed; solutions should be generated and evaluated.
Delphi Technique
- Used for solving complex problems with a panel of experts who never meet in person.
- Experts answer questionnaires about improvements; responses are summarized and further refined through multiple rounds.
- Final consensus is used to choose the best solution.
Force Field Analysis
- Used for decision-making and implementing change.
- Identify the current problem, desired solution, supporting (driving) and resisting (restraining) forces.
- Assign numerical strengths to each force; analyze to decide if the proposed change is viable.
- Develop an action plan based on the highest scoring forces.
Advantages of Collaborative Problem Solving
- Brings diverse perspectives, skills, and knowledge to the table.
- Encourages creativity, learning, and sharing of expertise.
- Decreases individual workload and increases idea generation.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Creative Thinking — Generating new, original ideas and solutions.
- Routine Thinking — Applying previous solutions in a conventional, logical manner.
- Conventional Solution — A solution commonly accepted and used by most people.
- Non-Conventional Solution — A unique, creative approach not typically followed.
- Delphi Technique — Problem solving with expert panels using anonymous input and multiple feedback rounds.
- Force Field Analysis — Analyzing forces for and against a change to aid decision making.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the differences between Delphi Technique and Force Field Analysis.
- Practice creating a table comparing routine vs. creative thinking and conventional vs. non-conventional solutions.
- Prepare examples of how creative thinking can be stimulated in a business.