How can you use creative problem solving in public health?

1 What is creative problem solving?

CPS is a process that involves identifying a problem, generating multiple ideas, evaluating and selecting the best options, and implementing and testing the chosen solutions. CPS is based on the assumption that creativity can be learned and enhanced, and that everyone can contribute to solving problems in novel and useful ways. CPS encourages divergent and convergent thinking, collaboration and communication, experimentation and feedback, and flexibility and openness.

2 Why is creative problem solving important for public health?

Public health problems are often complex, multifaceted, and influenced by various social, environmental, and behavioral factors. They also affect different groups of people in different ways, and require the involvement of multiple sectors and disciplines. Therefore, public health professionals need to be able to analyze problems from different perspectives, generate diverse and feasible solutions, and engage with stakeholders and beneficiaries to ensure the relevance and acceptability of the interventions. CPS can help public health professionals to achieve these goals, and to foster a culture of innovation and learning in their organizations and communities.

3 How can you use creative problem solving in public health?

The CPS process can be guided by different models and tools, generally sharing common steps. This simplified version of the CPS process for public health includes defining the problem, generating ideas, evaluating and selecting ideas, and implementing and testing ideas. To define the problem, use tools such as problem statements, logic models, stakeholder analysis, and SWOT analysis. To generate ideas, use mind maps, SCAMPER, random word association, and brainstorming rules. To evaluate and select ideas, use pros and cons, feasibility analysis, ranking, and voting. To implement and test ideas, use action plans, pilot testing, indicators, and feedback loops.

5 How can you improve your creative problem solving skills?

CPS is a skill that can be developed and improved with practice and feedback. To enhance your CPS skills, you should seek inspiration and exposure from different sources of information, challenge yourself to try new things, collaborate and communicate with others who have different backgrounds, perspectives, and skills, and reflect and learn from your CPS process. Additionally, you should seek feedback from others, document your learnings, and share your insights.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?