Creative Problem Solving
Structured methodology alternating between divergent exploration and convergent evaluation to systematically generate innovative solutions.
Also known as: CPS, Osborn-Parnes process, Creative problem-solving process
Category: Frameworks
Tags: creativity, problem-solving, methodologies, innovation
Explanation
Creative Problem Solving (CPS) is a structured methodology developed by Alex Osborn and Sidney Parnes in the 1950s-60s. It provides a systematic framework for tackling complex problems by deliberately alternating between divergent thinking (generating options) and convergent thinking (evaluating and selecting).
The CPS Process has evolved over time, but core stages include:
1. Clarify: Understand the challenge
- Divergent: Explore data, context, stakeholders
- Convergent: Define the problem statement
2. Ideate: Generate ideas
- Divergent: Brainstorm many possible solutions
- Convergent: Select promising ideas for development
3. Develop: Strengthen solutions
- Divergent: Explore ways to improve selected ideas
- Convergent: Formulate workable solutions
4. Implement: Plan for action
- Divergent: Consider resources, obstacles, supporters
- Convergent: Create action plan
Key principles of CPS:
- Separate ideation from evaluation (defer judgment during divergent phases)
- Strive for quantity (more ideas increase odds of finding good ones)
- Seek wild ideas (unusual ideas can lead to breakthroughs)
- Build on ideas (combine and improve rather than just generate)
- Affirmative judgment (look for value in ideas before criticizing)
CPS differs from unstructured creativity by providing a repeatable process. It differs from purely analytical problem-solving by incorporating creative generation phases.
Applications: Product development, organizational challenges, strategic planning, personal decisions, and any situation requiring both innovation and practical implementation.
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