Overview
Synectics is a structured methodology for group creative problem-solving, developed in the 1950s by George M. Prince and William J.J. Gordon. It emphasizes understanding the creative process, leveraging emotional and irrational thinking, and using specific techniques to generate and develop innovative solutions.
Origins and Principles
- Developed by Prince and Gordon at the Arthur D. Little Invention Design Unit in the 1950s.
- Based on the idea that creativity can be described, taught, and facilitated in groups or individuals.
- Assumes invention processes in arts and sciences share common psychological mechanisms.
- Focuses on both individual and group creativity as analogous.
Key Features and Techniques
- Synectics involves recording and analyzing meetings to refine creative collaboration methods.
- Encourages joining together unrelated or seemingly irrelevant elements for innovation.
- Stresses the importance of emotional and irrational elements alongside rational analysis in problem-solving.
- Uses practices and meeting structures to reduce inhibitions and release inherent creativity.
- Employs metaphorical thinking, especially the principle of making the familiar strange and the strange familiar.
- Utilizes "springboarding," brainstorming enhanced by metaphor and thorough evaluation, to move early ideas toward actionable solutions.
- Relies heavily on the skill of a trained facilitator for successful application.
Distinctions from Other Methods
- More structured and demanding than traditional brainstorming, requiring greater effort and time.
- Emphasizes participant commitment to implementing creative solutions.
- Synectics has become a standard term in creative problem-solving, although it is also the name of the founding company.
Applications and Influence
- Techniques extend beyond invention to include constructive conflict resolution and broader organizational creativity.
- Cited works and resources provide further practical guidance and theoretical background on the method.