The Creative Problem Solving Process – Step 3 – Problem Finding

Posted by Andrew Zenyuch

This is the third stage in the Creative Problem Solving Process.  The complete model can be found here: https://andrewzenyuch.com/?p=622

Goal
To look within your goal/objective/wish to find what problems are blocking the way. To zero-in on the biggest problem and create a defined problem statement to help generate solutions.

Statement Starters

  • How to…
  • How might I…
  • How might we…

Process – Diverge

  • Write your goal/objective/wish at the top of a new sheet of paper.
  • There are many barriers and reasons you have not reached your goal or completed your objective. Write down as many problems as you can think of that are keeping you from reaching your goal.
  • Be sure to use your Statement Starters to make your problems actionable.
  • Use your list of clustered facts as a guide.
  • If you’re stuck, use these questions:
    • What’s stopping me from reaching my goal?
    • What needs to change to get me where I want to go?
    • I could reach my goal if it weren’t for…

Process – Converge

  • Once you have a long list of problems that are stopping you from reaching your goal/wish/objective, stop and review your list.
  • Add anything else that comes to mind.
  • Beware of any problems that might actually have solutions in them.
  • If you can – cluster similar thoughts together.
  • If you can – see if any problems in each cluster can be added together to make a more robust problem statement. This restatement should encompass the meaning of each problem statement.
  • Go through your list and put a star next to anything that:
    • Immediately grabs your attention.
    • You feel the strongest about.
    • Would be the most satisfying to solve.
    • You have the most control over.
    • You feel needs the most imagination and new ideas.
  • The ones with the most stars should represent your most important. However, the stars are only advisory.
  • Now the tough part – pick just one to work on. (But don’t worry, the beauty of the process is you can come back and pick a different one to continue the process with at a later time.)

CONGRATULATIONS!  You have just completed the Problem Finding Stage of the Creative Problem Solving Process.  You are now ready to complete the next stage – Idea Finding: https://andrewzenyuch.com/?p=437