Understand problems and the creative problem-solving process. Identify types of information together and key questions to ask in problem-solving. Identify the importance of defining a problem correctly. Identify and use four different problem definition tools. Write concrete problem statements. Use basic brainstorming tools to generate ideas for solutions. Evaluate potential solutions against criteria, including cost/benefit analysis and group voting. Perform a final analysis to select a solution. Understand the roles that fact and intuition play in selecting a solution. Understand the need to refine the shortlist and redefine it. Understand how to identify the tasks and resources necessary to implement solutions. Evaluate and adapt solutions to reality.

The Problem Solving Method

• What is a Problem?
• What is Creative Problem Solving?
• What are the Steps in the Creative Solving Process?

Information Gathering

• Understanding Types of Information
• Identifying Key Questions
• Methods of Gathering Information

Problem Definition

• Defining the Problem
• Determining Where the Problem Originated
• Defining the Present State and the Desired State
• Stating and Restating the Problem
• Analyzing the Problem
• Writing the Problem Statement

Preparing for Brainstorming

• Identifying Mental Blocks
• Removing Mental Blocks
• Stimulating Creativity

Generating Solutions (I)

• Brainstorming Basics
• Brain writing and Mind Mapping
• Duncker Diagrams

Generating Solutions (II)

• The Morphological Matrix
• The Six Thinking Hats
• The Blink Method

Analyzing Solutions

•  Developing Criteria
•  Analyzing Wants and Needs
•  Using Cost/Benefit Analysis

Selecting a Solution

• Doing a Final Analysis
• Paired Comparison Analysis
• Analyzing Potential Problems

Planning Your Next Steps

• Identifying Tasks
• Identifying Resources
• Implementing, Evaluating, and Adapting

Creating a Performance Plan

• Planning the Follow-Up Meeting
• Celebrating Successes
• Identifying Improvements

Attendees will get a training certificate after the completion of the course.