Creative Problem Solving
Research shows that by the time we are adults, we demonstrate less than 10% of the creativity of a five-year-old child. What does this mean? For one, that we approach new problems with a stale outlook, allowing less opportunity for fresh, interesting solutions.
Research also shows that when the creative areas of our brain are stimulated, we learn better, faster, and retain more of the information. Since learning is ideally part of every day, it stands to reason that by enhancing our creativity, we will learn more on a daily basis as well as making room for more effective problem-solving.
Here’s an example: At a seminar for a group of engineers and related staff, I presented them with the following problem, developed by their manager: A group of clients at a transit facility were having problems with the lunchroom toaster not working. They were asked to develop a solution proposal for the clients.
There were a variety of solutions, most regarding wiring, boosting power to the facility, or moving the lunchroom; a few looked at re-training staff in use of the toaster, or purchasing a new toaster. Most, however, made it a much larger job than was probably necessary. (This is common for all of us; it’s not popular with our clients.) However, not a single person in this group of about 30 advised checking to see that the toaster was plugged in.
Now, you might ask, how is checking something that basic a creative idea? Precisely because it is so obvious, it’s overlooked. We tend to see things in terms of our own expertise and experience, and forget to look at problems from a variety of angles, from the mundane to the absurd. Attending this seminar will bring a fresh perspective for you and your staff in all areas of your work.
What does this workshop do?
- Bring stakeholders and participants together to examine the form or process
- Identify exactly what is really necessary
- “Walk” through the current stages/steps/path of document
- Formulate an optimal and streamlined product (whether form or process)
- Assist participants in how to present to others (when necessary)
What makes this workshop different from a hundred others?
- Highly pragmatic approach - not nebulous results that only last for two weeks
- Extraordinary level of enthusiasm and energy
- Teaching methods for all kinds of learners
- Bulk of work is hands-on, dealing with problems the group identifies
- Specific agreements and commitments made publicly helps ensure follow-through
- Right and left brain approaches enhance absorption and retention of material
- Makes learning fun, even for the skeptics!
Testimonial:
“I was amazed at the clarity Ramona brought to the process. We started with a three-page form that had been around forever, that everyone hated. By the end of the day, not only was it only one page, but the two groups involved now have a much better understanding of what each other does.” - Jan P., Transit Planner
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