Creative problem solving

Creative Problem Solving (CPS) is a structured creativity process to generate new and useful solutions for a problem and to control change processes.

CPS was developed by Alex Osborn and Sidney J. Parnes in the 1950s and 1960s. With the constant further development of the process by different authors, several versions of the CPS were created. The current version 6.1 has existed since 2000.

Structure and structure

Linear structure

For a long time the creative problem solving process was linear. For example, version 4.0 according to Isaksen and Treffinger (1992) consisted of six explicit steps in three phases. The problem to be worked on is referred to as a challenge.

1. Explore the Challenge (exploring the challenge)
   1. Mess Finding (determining the destination)
   2. Data Finding (collecting necessary information)
   3. Problem Finding (Identifying the problem that needs to be solved in order to achieve the goal)
2. Generate Ideas (generating ideas)
   1. Idea Finding (generating ideas for solving the identified problem)
3. Prepare for Action (prepare action)
   1. Solution Finding (working out ideas for a feasible solution)
   2. Acceptance Finding (plan action steps)

Non-linear structure

Non-linear, flexible versions of the CPS now exist. The current version 6.1 ™ (Isaksen, Dorval & Treffinger, 2000) consists of four main components, which are made up of a total of eight individual aspects.

1. Understanding the Challenge (challenge understand)
   This step involves defining a worthwhile goal or challenge.
   1. Constructing Opportunities (formulating possibilities)
      After collecting all relevant data, key questions are formulated in the form of open questions for the solution of the goal.
   2. Exploring Data (assessing the situation)
      After defining the goal, as much data and facts as possible on the topic should be collected so that the situation can be adequately assessed.
   3. Framing problem (framing the problem)
      The problem is presented in various and unusual ways in order to stimulate the brainstorming process by the subsequent focus on a certain representation method (framing).
2. Generating Ideas (generating ideas)
   In this step, developed many ideas to the previously defined core issues. Through an open, explorative brainstorming using various creativity techniques, new ideas should be generated and new perspectives opened up. In a further step, the ideas are selected which, in the opinion of the problem-solving person, show the greatest potential for solving the problem.
3. Preparing for Action (prepare action)
   The aim here is to develop promising ideas into workable solutions and implement them successful.
   1. Developing Solutions (developing solutions)
      from the selected ideas actionable solutions are derived. Specific next steps are recorded in the form of an action plan.
   2. Building Acceptance (acceptance build)
      factors or persons, which impede or facilitate the implementation of a solution to be identified. Problems with the implementation should be anticipated.
4. Planning your approach (approach plan)
   From this point, the personalization and customization of the CPS is understood process according to the individual needs and preferences.
   1. Appraising Tasks (Tasks estimate)
      reflection on the effective and efficient use of the CPS component with regard to certain tasks related to human and material resources, as well as certain methods.
   2. Designing Process (process design)
      Concrete planning of the individual CPS process on the basis of the findings obtained in the previous step.

literature

• Isaksen, SG; Dorval, KB; Treffinger, DJ (2000): Creative Approaches to Problem Solving: A framework for Change. Kendall / Hunt: Dubuque, Iowa.
• Rustler, F. (2016): Thinking tools of creativity and innovation. The small handbook of innovation methods (2nd edition). Zurich: Midas Management.
• Treffinger, DJ; Isaksen, SG (1992): Creative Problem Solving: An Introduction. Sarasota, FL: Center for Creative Learning.

Individual evidence

1. ↑ http://xn--kreativittstechniken-jzb.info/kreativitaetsframeworks/creative-problem-solving-process/
2. ↑ Archived copy ( memento of the original dated November 23, 2015 in the Internet Archive ) Info: The archive link was inserted automatically and has not yet been checked. Please check the original and archive link according to the instructions and then remove this notice.