Answer:
At its core, problem solving is a methodical four-step process. You may even recall these steps from when you were first introduced to the Scientific Method.
First, you must define the problem. What is its cause? What are the signs there's a problem at all?
Next, you identify various options for solutions. What are some good ideas to solve this?
Then, evaluate your options and choose from among them. What is the best option to solve the problem? What's the easiest option? How should you prioritize?
Finally, implement the chosen solution. Does it solve the problem? Is there another option you need to try?
Explanation:
Creative Problem Solving Techniques
Separate ideation from evaluation. When you brainstorm creative ideas, have a separate time for listing it all down. Focus on generating lots of ideas. Don't prioritize or evaluate them until everything is captured.
Judging will shut it down. Nothing stops the flow of creative ideas faster than judging them on the spot. Wait until the brainstorming is over before you evaluate.
Restate problems as questions. It's easier to entice a group into thinking of creative ideas when challenges are stated as open-ended questions.
Use "Yes and" to expand ideas. Here's one of the basic tenets of improv comedy. It's way too easy to shut down and negate ideas by using the word "but." (i.e. "But I think this is better...") Avoid this at all costs. Instead, expand on what was previously introduced by saying "Yes, and..." to keep ideas flowing and evolving.
