What are the differences between creative problem solving and traditional methods?

Creative problem solving involves generating innovative solutions by thinking outside the box, embracing ambiguity, and encouraging diverse perspectives. Traditional methods often rely on established procedures, linear thinking, and predictable outcomes. Creative problem solving fosters flexibility and adaptability, while traditional methods may prioritize efficiency and adherence to existing protocols.

Innovation often unfolds as a three-step process: first, clearly defining the problem; second, stretching the boundaries of traditional thinking; and third, selecting the most effective solution. At each step, a variety of creative tools can be employed, each suited to specific stages and challenges. It's crucial for teams to familiarize themselves with these tools, expanding their problem-solving arsenal to ensure the right approach is applied at the right time with the right participants. Unlike traditional methods, which may hinder progress by restricting reiteration or not allocating sufficient time for genuine innovation, creative problem-solving embraces flexibility and encourages ongoing refinement and adaptation.

With Traditional Problem-Solving approach, many mental blockages come into play. 1. People educated in specific area only eligible for solving problem in that area. 2. Authority and Capital (human/financial) put the boundaries around thinking. Many stops to think further at this point. 3. Traditional education system evaluates students on only one correct answer which puts box around thinking. Ex. Uses of bricks. Expected answer by education system - Home construction. There are many other uses of bricks, and they should be categorized in good, better, best answer.

I came up with below framework for thinking: - Every event in marketplace produces an opportunity. One has to figure out which one he/she could seize it. Key skill required in Creative Problem Solving are: 1. Structured Thinking - going to the root of the problem, analyzing it step by step. 2. Open mind for new information from diverse areas. 3. Create many hypotheses and validating them in the mind for its possible outcomes and impact. 4. Not putting box around your thinking with past experiences and education.

In both traditional and creative problem-solving, the implementation approach significantly shapes the outcome. Traditional methods typically involve meticulous planning followed by a controlled rollout aimed at minimizing disruption. On the other hand, creative problem-solving often adopts a more agile and iterative approach, where solutions are continuously tested and refined. This method allows for highly customized and progressively improved outcomes, though it does demand a higher degree of flexibility and tolerance for ongoing adjustments during implementation.

Analytical thinking helps you to go to the roots of the problem. Understand Patterns. Analyze impact due to problem. Make better judgement. Intuitive thinking helps you keep open mind for knowledge from all sectors. Helps you make connections for the current problem at hand to different problems and solutions approaches in different areas. Many technological inventions and solutions are inspired by observing natural phenomenon.

To have Solution Diversity, First thing is to tell the team - No answer is wrong but rather categorize them in good, better and best solution. Then approach can be finalized based on technical feasibility, available resources etc.

Organizations lacking a formalized innovation function might consider the significant benefits of hiring an innovation consultant. Without expert guidance, there's a risk of reverting to stale, ineffective practices carried out by teams who may lack enthusiasm. This often leads to 'checkbox' innovation, which fails to deliver genuine value and can foster a misleading perception among leadership that innovation is not worth the investment. An experienced innovation consultant can invigorate the process, ensuring that fresh, effective, and truly innovative solutions are consistently generated and implemented. This strategic move elevates the quality of outcomes and reinforces the organization's commitment to authentic innovation.

Once you set the correct approach to problem solving, Implementation approach can be decided based on technological feasibility and resource availability. Ex. Electricity Generation Sol 1. Thermal Power plant - Good Sol 2. Hydraulic/Wind/Solar Electricity Generation - Better Sol 3. Atomic Fusion. - Best In above scenario, best solution is not yet achieved hence going with Good/Better one is wiser. In parallel keep working on best approach.

In traditional problem-solving, solutions are frequently reached by following predetermined procedures or techniques. It is more methodical and depends on tried-and-true methods or algorithms. On the other hand, coming up with answers requires creativity, unconventional thinking, and occasionally even questioning the nature of the issue. It involves developing novel strategies, concepts, or goods that may not have been thought of previously. In my opinion, finding solutions within preexisting frameworks is essentially what traditional problem-solving entails, but developing new possibilities is what solution-creation entails creativity