Creative Problem Solving

Why do some people seem to find elegant solutions to complex challenges while others get stuck? Over the last few decades, research into psychology and organizational behavior has revealed a striking truth: successful problem solvers—regardless of their industry—follow a consistent, repeatable process to achieve results.

The Creative Problem Solving (CPS) course introduces you to this universal framework. This course isn’t just about “brainstorming”; it is about a disciplined, structured approach to innovation. Whether you are tackling a small departmental glitch or a massive strategic pivot, you will leave with a proven roadmap to move from initial friction to a finalized, high-impact solution.

INTRODUCTION

• Course Objectives

MODULE 1

• The Problem Solving Method
• What is a Problem?
• What is Creative Problem Solving?
• What are the Steps in the Creative Solving Process?
• Knowledge Check

MODULE 2

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

MODULE 3

• 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
• Knowledge Check

MODULE 4

• Preparing for Brainstorming
• Identifying Mental Blocks
• Removing Mental Blocks
• Stimulating Creativity
• Knowledge Check

MODULE 5

• Generating Solutions (I)
• Brainstorming Basics
• Brainwriting and Mind Mapping
• Duncker Diagrams
• Knowledge Check

MODULE 6

• Generating Solutions (II)
• The Morphological Matrix
• The Six Thinking Hats
• The Blink Method
• Knowledge Check

MODULE 7

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

MODULE 8

• Selecting a Solution
• Doing a Final Analysis
• Paired Comparison Analysis
• Analyzing Potential Problems
• Knowledge Check

MODULE 9

• Planning Your Next Steps
• Identifying Tasks
• Identifying Resources
• Implementing, Evaluating, and Adapting
• Knowledge Check

MODULE 10

• Recording Lessons Learned
• Planning the Follow-Up Meeting
• Celebrating Successes
• Identifying Improvements
• Knowledge Check

ASSESSMENT

• Post-Test