Is this where it all began; where creative techniques were formalised to help resolve problems?
This is the 1940s and 1950s. W.J.J. Gordon and G.M. Prince develop what comes to be called ‘Synectics’.
It benefits from having a trained facilitator, though once you know what you’re doing you can do it alone.
The Techniques Library offers a brief outline, for more refer to Nolan (1989)
PRELIMINARY PLANNING
Who owns the problem and does this person have the authority to do something about it?
Consider the scope of the problem, the number and quality of solutions required and set realistic expectations.
PHASE 1
- Refine the problem as a springboard
- Generate other springboard
PHASE 2
- A springboard ‘owner’ justifies their work.
- Ideas are generated to make it work.
- Understanding is checked
- List the solution and only then attach the problems these could resolve.
- Recyle or end.
REFERENCE
Gordon, W.J.J. (1961) Synectics, New York, Harper and Row
Prince, G.M. (1970) The Practice of Creativity, New York, Collier Books.
VanGundy, A.B. (1988) Techniques of structured problem solving, “nd ed., Van Nostrand Reinhold. Technique 4.57, pp. 182-95
Based on: Nolan, V. (1989) The Innovator’s Handbook, London, Sphere Book.
