As an individual, facts and knowledge can only go so far. Tough problem-solving requires creative abilities to define the true problem, analyse the possible causes, create options, select the most feasible option, and then implement it. This one-day analytical and creative problem-solving workshop should help participants enhance their skills to find sustainable solutions and learn new ways to approach innovative methods to reach win-win decisions.

OBJECTIVES

• Increase personal efficiency in analytical and creative problem solving.
• Recognize personal conceptual blocks and enhance creativity by overcoming them.
• A solution-based critical problem-solving model that enables effective thought organization and managing different situations; be it current or future challenges.
• How to effectively solicit information to understand a situation and resolve issues.
• How to break down problems and issues into simple parts or tasks.
• How to identify the direct linkages or relationship between two facets of a situation.
• Foster innovativeness within self and among others in a group.

OUTLINE

Introduction to Creative Thinking and Problem Solving

• Key terms and definitions.
• Common symptoms; problems relating to self, others and the impact on the organization.
• Generating “solution ideas” using creative thinking.
• Differences between analytical/critical thinking and creative thinking.

Critical Thinking versus Creative Problem Solving (Idea Generation)

• Flow chart
• FFA
• Brainstorming
• “What if” statements
• 5 Why’s
• 6 Thinking hats
• Killer phrases and Idea grower
• Mind-mapping

Evaluate Ideas for Possible Solutions to a Problem Root Cause

• Adopting stakeholder analysis.
• Testing the solutions.
• Setting and using criteria such as idea-evaluation matrix; evaluate options; idea-compatibility roll-out etc.
• The learners will now be given some work-based situations where they will need to solve a work place challenge.
• This will be critiqued by the trainer and feedback will be given by the trainer.

Final Review of Learning

• Debrief and application of learning points in the workplace.
• Questions and answer session.
• Moving forward—Personal action plans for application of learning.

DURATION

One Day