Creative Problem Solving Tools

Explore convergent thinking, which seeks one right answer, and its strengths in building essential knowledge for future jobs, while noting its limits for expanding problem solving.

Embrace divergent thinking to expand possibilities in creative problem solving, contrasting it with convergent thinking. A six-stage process blends both approaches, illustrated by Tesla's radio-controlled boat example.

Learn the six-stage problem solving process, blending divergent and convergent thinking from problem finding to plan of action, with methods to abstract messy situations and ask guiding questions.

Discover methods for finding ideas by comparing simple, practical fixes with complex solutions, as shown by NASA's zero gravity pen and the soap box example.

Learn seven brainstorming strategies that boost group creativity, from free idea generation to structured methods like nominal group technique and idea map, while suspending critique and building on each idea.

Explore the Disney creative strategy, switching between dreamer, realist, and critic mindsets to generate ideas, plan actions, and identify potential roadblocks for practical outcomes.

Harness the force relationships technique to spark innovative ideas by forcing connections between unrelated objects or words, using random inputs to reveal valuable product and service insights.

Apply the lotus blossom technique by defining a central theme, expanding to eight surrounding ideas, then generate eight new ideas from those themes using stimulators to foster a creative climate.

Practice assumption smashing to identify and challenge every assumption about a problem, use opposite assumptions to spark creative divergent thinking, and translate insights into real solutions.

Explore the metaphor technique to link similar qualities, spark creative tension, and reveal insight; follow five steps from relaxation to picking a life metaphor and projecting an envisioned outcome.

Think differently to originate breakthrough business solutions by getting out of the box, using one of six techniques individually or as a group to surprise yourself.