Creative Problem Solving

Use Data Analysis and Collaborative Approaches

Although there are numerous tools and techniques for analyzing problems,
LECTURETTE there are two major approaches that greatly simplify the problem-solving
process. The first approach is the data analysis approach, and the second is
(Allow 6-8 min.) the collaborative design approach. The approach you choose to solve a
problem is determined largely by the availability and type of data.

Ask: How do we use Process for Analyzing Problems

data?

Data Analysis Approach

Collaborative Design Approach

Data Analysis Approach

When data is available, typically the problem can be solved by analyzing the
data. Data provides facts upon which you can base decisions. It moves you
out of the realm of personal opinions, exaggeration, and false impressions. It
is important not to rely on data alone, however, it too requires a context and
support. It is merely a tool that helps you identify causes and variations on
performance.

A data analysis approach is also used when we track quality indicators in

order to monitor our performance and improve in specific areas. It allows us to
establish baseline standards, identify potential problems or deviations from
the norm, and indicate when and where we should take corrective action.

FLIP CHART

"Data Analysis
Approach"

Review the model with

the class.

Ask: What examples

can you think of that
require you to use a data
analysis approach?

Ask: How many of you

are familiar with, or are
currently using any of
these tools?
 When to Use. The seven data analysis tools described on the next page are
used primarily to identify and solve problems. They typically are used by
Quality Improvement of Problem-solving Teams whose responsibility it is to
improve a process or to solve a particular problem.

The Collaborative Design Approach

The second approach to problem analysis is called the collaborative design

LECTURETTE approach. With this approach, not all the data you need to solve a problem is
available. Or, it is in the minds of other people and consequently must be
(Allow 3-4 min.) expressed in language and not numbers.

This approach has two central features: 1) it is highly detail-oriented, and 2)

it typically involves people from different departments with different
backgrounds and disciplines. Because of this, the collaborative design
approach to problem solving is very effective in solving interdepartmental
and cross-functional problems, such as quality control issues.

FLIP CHART

"Collaborative Design
Approach"

Review the
characteristics of the
collaborative design
approach.

Ask: How do you

currently collaborate
with others to solve a
problem?

Ask: What basis do

you use?

TRANSITION

Let's discuss some

of the tools we can
use to solve
problems
collaboratively.
 Collaborative Problem Solving Tools

The information obtained in this approach is typically subjective, as it is

LECTURETTE
based on experiences, feelings and observations of others. To be useful,
it must be organized, assimilated, and interpreted so that it is meaningful.
(Continued)
That's where the collaborative problem-solving tools come in they help
provide a way to organize and structure information.

Collaborative Design Tools

FLIP CHART
What it Looks Like What it Does

SWOT ANALYSIS. This

"Collaborative Tools" is a process in which you
ask people to analyze a
List tools for situation by identifying
collaboration of flip the strengths,
chart. weaknesses,
opportunities, and
Review purpose of threats.
SWOT.

BRAINSTORMING. This
is a process in which
people generate ideas in
Ask: What is
a non-threatening,
brainstorming?
unstructured manner in
order to develop
solutions to problems.
Ask: When do you use
it?

PERT CHART. The

Problem Evaluation and
Review Technique
Ask: What is a PERT (PERT) chart is a
Chart? network representation
used to show the steps
needed to implement a
Ask: When do you use plan.
it?

PROCESS FLOW
CHART. This diagram
pictures the steps in a
Ask: What is a flow job sequence. The
chart? diagram tracks the flow
of information, paper,
materials, and people
Ask: When do you use through a system.
it?
TRANSITION

Let's discuss how we

can benefit by using data
sources.
 PRACTICE THE FOUR STEP PROCESS

It is useful to think of problem solving as a systematic process. Although the

LECTURETTE process is rarely as orderly as the flow chart below, the graphic illustrates the
stages of thinking which characterize effective problem-solving.
(Allow 3-4 min.)

Introduce the
Problem-solving
Process using the
flip chart.

FLIP CHART

"Steps in the
Problem-solving
Process"

Review flip chart

and hang on the
wall.
 THE PURPOSE OF BRAINSTORMING

The Importance of Brainstorming

LECTURETTE

The most important point we as managers must remember about

(Allow 7-10 min.)
fostering a climate for creativity is highlighted below.

Refer to the graphic as you

Creativity is a fragile and delicate state of mind
discuss the importance of
that is profoundly affected
brainstorming.
by our interactions with others

You have a responsibility to create a climate where people feel

comfortable and safe in expressing new ideas. Setting aside time to
brainstorm problems in a non-threatening and non-judgmental
atmosphere stimulates creativity among your team members.

Brainstorming was developed in the 1930s by advertising executive

Alex Olson, who was looking for ways to generate more creative ideas
for his customers. The process has gained widespread acceptance
since then and is often used as a method of group problem solving.

The Purpose of Brainstorming

FLIP CHART

"The Purpose of Generate Many Creative Ideas

Brainstorming"
Satisfy Affiliation Needs
Refer to the flip chart as
you discuss the importance Overcome group pressure
of brainstorming. Overcome group think

Avoid Ego Blocks

Group criticism
Self-criticism

Brainstorming works because it satisfies our need for affiliation while

preventing the chilling effect caused when individual ego needs try to
take precedence over group cooperation.