The Creative Problem Solving (CPS) Framework is a structured approach that helps individuals and teams solve problems or identify opportunities where conventional thinking has failed. It emphasizes divergent and convergent thinking to foster creativity, enabling the generation of novel solutions and effective decision-making. This framework is particularly beneficial in complex scenarios where traditional problem-solving methods are inadequate.
Identify the Goal, Wish, or Challenge: Clearly define the problem or opportunity you are addressing. | Gather Data: Collect information that relates to the problem to understand the context and nuances. | Clarify the Problem: Reframe and redefine the problem based on the data gathered to ensure the right challenge is addressed. | Generate Ideas: Use creative thinking techniques to generate a wide range of possible solutions. | Develop Solutions: Refine and enrich the best ideas into workable solutions. | Plan for Action: Develop an action plan to implement the chosen solutions effectively.
Encourage a diverse group of participants to enhance creativity. | Use visual aids and brainstorming tools to facilitate idea generation. | Regularly review and refine the process based on feedback and outcomes.
Encourages out-of-the-box thinking | Adaptable to a wide range of problems | Promotes thorough understanding before solution generation
Time-consuming | Requires skilled facilitation for best results | May not be suitable for urgent problem-solving needs
When traditional problem-solving methods fail | When a creative or innovative solution is needed
In crisis situations requiring immediate action | When the problem is well-defined and a conventional approach is sufficient