Creative Problem Solving in business

Setting the ball rolling:

Well begun is half done. At this stage it is important to understand that there is no single magic wand available to provide an instant solution. In fact, pushing for an instant solution could actually smother creativity. Creative solutions need space and time to evolve and take shape.

In order to understand the process better, let us take a couple of time-tested methods like ‘Brain storming’ and ‘Thinking outside the box’. These approaches have delivered good results. However, it is important to have a deep understanding of what makes these creative approaches to problem solving click before using them in any organisation.

Brain storming is an old concept developed by Alex Osborn in the 1950s and over the years it has undergone changes as organisations have used it. It is a simple approach that allows employees to get together in a relaxed and informal setting to think, discuss and generate as many ideas as possible. It helps bring the diverse experience of team members to the table. An idea is never shot down no matter how quirky or wild it is. All ideas are collected, evaluated and some are converted into viable new solutions, while other ideas are not discarded but retained to serve as food for thought during future sessions.

Brain storming, in a sense, is a reactive approach because to focusses on a specific issue at hand – it is usually about fixing something that is broken.  Thinking outside the box, on the other hand has broader connotations. It is all about being proactive and staying ahead of the curve. It is about an organisation developing the ability to continuously and constructively question the status quo with the firm belief that there are always better ways of doing things. It is about breaking free of existing constraints and looking beyond current practices to open up new possibilities – new products, services or new ways of delivering existing offerings to customers.