21 Inspiring Real-Life Creative Problem Solving in Action

Feeling stuck? We all face challenges, big and small, that leave us scratching our heads. But before you throw in the towel, consider the power of creative problem-solving! This approach involves looking beyond the obvious and unlocking innovative solutions.

In this blog post, we’ll get you inspired with 21 real-life examples of creative problem-solving in action. From everyday people to history-makers, we’ll explore how individuals tackled challenges with ingenuity and resourcefulness. Get ready to discover fresh perspectives and practical tips that you can apply to your own problems.

What is Creative Problem Solving and Why Is It Important?

Creative problem-solving is the art of tackling challenges by thinking outside the box and coming up with original, effective solutions. It’s about moving beyond conventional methods and embracing new perspectives to overcome obstacles.

• Find Innovative Solutions: Traditional methods might not always work for complex problems. Creative problem-solving allows you to explore unconventional approaches and discover solutions that might not have been immediately apparent.
• Adapts to Change: The world is constantly evolving, and the ability to adapt is crucial. Equips yourself with the skills to navigate unforeseen challenges and find solutions in a dynamic environment.
• Boosts Innovation: You should encourage new ideas and approaches, as it fosters innovation. This can be beneficial for individuals and organizations alike, leading to new products, services, and ways of working.
• Enhances Resilience: This helps you to overcome setbacks and bounce back from challenges. You will learn to see problems as opportunities for growth and find resourceful ways to move forward.
• Improves Overall Thinking Skills: The process of creative problem-solving strengthens critical thinking, analytical skills, and communication. It encourages you to consider different viewpoints, analyze data effectively, and articulate your ideas clearly.

Now let’s get to the principles of creative problem solving

The Core Principles of Creative Problem Solving

Creative problem-solving isn’t a rigid set of rules; it’s a flexible approach based on core principles that guide you towards innovative solutions. Here are some key concepts that form the foundation of creative problem-solving:

1. Everyone is Creative 
2. Creativity can be learned and enhanced.

3. Embrace Divergence and Convergence:

   • Divergent Thinking: This involves generating a vast array of ideas without judgment. Techniques like brainstorming and mind mapping encourage exploration and thinking outside the box.
   • Convergent Thinking: This is the process of evaluating and narrowing down the ideas generated in the divergent phase. Critical analysis, decision-making frameworks, and prioritization help choose the most promising solutions.

4. Reframing the Problem: Instead of focusing on limitations, phrasing the problem as a question opens up possibilities and encourages exploration. For Example: Instead of “We can’t reach new customers,” ask “How can we expand our reach to new markets?”

5. Defer Judgement: In the initial brainstorming phase, withhold criticism or negativity. Allow all ideas to be voiced, no matter how unusual they may seem. Wild ideas can spark inspiration and lead to unexpected solutions.

6. “Yes, And” vs. “No, But”:
   Building on existing ideas fosters collaboration and encourages further exploration. When someone proposes an idea, use “Yes, and…” to add to it rather than shutting it down with “No, but…”.

In addition to principles of creative problem solving, lets check the steps involved.

5 Steps to Creative Problem-Solving

The Evolving Five-Step Osborn-Parnes Creative Problem Solving Model

The Osborn-Parnes Creative Problem Solving Model (CPS), developed by Alex F. Osborn and refined by Sidney J. Parnes, remains a cornerstone of creative problem-solving approaches. This five-step framework offers a structured yet flexible process for individuals and teams to tackle challenges with innovative solutions. While new advancements have emerged, the core principles of CPS are still highly relevant. Let’s explore the steps with a modern twist:

1. User-Centered Fact-Finding

Traditional Focus: Gather all relevant information about the problem.

Modern Twist: In addition to factual data, prioritize understanding the needs and perspectives of those impacted by the problem. Conduct user research, gather feedback, and consider how the solution will ultimately benefit the user.

2. Problem Definition with Clarity

Traditional Focus: Clearly define the problem that needs to be addressed.

Modern Twist: Go beyond just identifying the problem. Consider the root cause and its impact on users. Frame the problem as a question that encourages exploration of potential solutions.

3. Agile Idea-Finding

Traditional Focus: Generate a wide range of ideas through techniques like brainstorming and mind mapping.

Modern Twist: While brainstorming is still valuable, consider incorporating modern tools like collaborative software or online idea boards. Embrace an “agile” approach, where you test and refine ideas in smaller cycles based on initial feedback.

4. Solution-Finding with User Validation

Traditional Focus: Evaluate and refine ideas based on feasibility and effectiveness.

Modern Twist: Integrate user needs into the evaluation process. Prototype solutions and gather feedback from potential users to ensure they truly address the problem and provide value.

5. Acceptance-Finding: Building Consensus

Traditional Focus: Gain buy-in for the chosen solution from stakeholders.

Modern Twist: Focus on building consensus and collaboration throughout the process. Keep stakeholders informed, address concerns early on, and involve them in solution validation to ensure successful implementation.

Now to the real gist of the article,

21 Inspiring Real-Life Examples

Here are the 21 inspiring real-life examples, rewritten with specific details for each category and incorporating the 5-step Osborn-Parnes Creative Problem Solving Model:

Creative Problem Solving At Home:

1. The Burnt Dinner (Agile Idea-Finding & User Validation)

   • Problem: Disaster strikes! You burn dinner and need a quick, satisfying meal to appease a hungry family.
   • Step 1 (Agile Idea-Finding): Think fast! Brainstorm options – frozen meals in the freezer, takeout menus, or improvising a new dish with pantry staples.
   • Step 2 (User Validation): Consider your family’s preferences and any dietary restrictions. A stir-fry with frozen veggies and rice might work for everyone, or maybe pizza night is a crowd-pleaser!

2. The Unruly Garden (User-Centered Fact-Finding & Solution-Finding)

   • Problem: Your once-vibrant garden has become overgrown and overwhelming. You need a way to reclaim your outdoor oasis.
   • Step 1 (User-Centered Fact-Finding): Assess your lifestyle and available time. How much time realistically can you dedicate to garden maintenance?
   • Step 2 (Solution-Finding): Explore options – tackle the project in small, manageable sections, research low-maintenance native plants, or consider using mulch to suppress weeds and retain moisture.

3. The Lost Phone (Acceptance-Finding & Agile Idea-Finding)

   • Problem: You’re running late and can’t find your phone – a crucial tool for navigating the day!
   • Step 1 (Acceptance-Finding): Take a deep breath and acknowledge the situation. Panicking won’t help you find it faster.
   • Step 2 (Agile Idea-Finding): Retrace your steps – where did you last see it? Call your phone from another device to help locate it. Utilize “Find My Phone” features if you have them enabled.

4. The Overstuffed Closet (Agile Idea-Finding & Solution-Finding)

   • Problem: Your closet is overflowing with clothes you never wear, making it difficult to find what you actually need. Time for a wardrobe refresh!
   • Step 1 (Agile Idea-Finding): Brainstorm solutions – donate unused clothes to charity, sell them online, or hold a clothing swap party with friends.
   • Step 2 (Solution-Finding): Implement the chosen solution(s) and organize the remaining clothes efficiently. Categorize by type and season to maximize space and make getting dressed a breeze.

5. The Leftover Paint (Agile Idea-Finding & Solution-Finding)

   • Problem: You have leftover paint from a recent project. Don’t toss it!
   • Step 1 (Agile Idea-Finding): Think creatively! Brainstorm ways to use the leftover paint.
   • Step 2 (Solution-Finding): Upcycle old furniture pieces with a fresh coat of paint, create decorative planters for your home, or explore fun DIY art projects to personalize your space.

CPS In the Office:

1. The Forgotten Presentation Slides (User-Centered Fact-Finding & Solution-Finding)

   • Problem: Oh no! You arrive at a crucial meeting only to realize you forgot your presentation slides at home.
   • Step 1 (User-Centered Fact-Finding): Assess the audience – are they familiar with the topic already, or do they need a detailed presentation?
   • Step 2 (Solution-Finding): Explore options – can you improvise and present using a whiteboard or online collaborative tools? Can you access your slides remotely and project them from another device?

2. The Messy Workspace Meeting (Acceptance-Finding & Agile Idea-Finding)

   • Problem: You need to brainstorm ideas with your team, but the meeting room is cluttered and disorganized, hindering creativity.
   • Step 1 (Acceptance-Finding): Acknowledge the limitation (messy room) and focus on the goal (productive brainstorming).
   • Step 2 (Agile Idea-Finding): Propose creative solutions – move the meeting to a different location like a conference room, utilize online brainstorming tools to capture ideas virtually, or spend a few minutes quickly tidying the room together before starting.

3. The Tight Budget (User-Centered Fact-Finding & Solution-Finding with User Validation)

   • Problem: The department needs to stretch its office supplies budget to last the entire quarter.
   • Step 1 (User-Centered Fact-Finding): Consider department. Analyze usage patterns – identify which supplies are used most frequently and explore cost-saving options for those items.
   •  Step 2 (Solution-Finding with User Validation): Explore options – negotiate bulk discounts with suppliers, consider generic brands for certain products, or encourage employees to be mindful of paper usage and implement double-sided printing where possible.
   •  Step 3 (User Validation): Present your proposed solutions to colleagues and gather feedback before implementation.

4. The Dreaded Presentation (Fact-Finding & Solution-Finding)

   • Problem: You’re feeling overwhelmed with nerves about giving an important presentation to your colleagues.
   • Step 1 (Fact-Finding): Identify the root cause of your nervousness – is it fear of public speaking, unfamiliarity with the content, or something else?
   • Step 2 (Solution-Finding): Research calming techniques like deep breathing exercises. Practice your presentation beforehand in front of a trusted colleague or record yourself to identify areas for improvement. Prepare clear and concise slides with engaging visuals to keep your audience focused. Most importantly, focus on your passion for the topic and your desire to share your knowledge.

5. The Broken Appliance (Fact-Finding & Solution-Finding)

   • Problem: The office coffee maker sputtered its last breath, and everyone is craving a caffeine fix!
   • Step 1 (Fact-Finding): Assess the situation – is it a minor issue you can troubleshoot yourself, or does it require professional repair?
   • Step 2 (Solution-Finding): Explore options – consult online resources or user manuals for troubleshooting tips. If necessary, contact the manufacturer or a qualified repair technician.

CPS On-The-Go:

1. The Long Commute (Fact-Finding & Solution-Finding)

   • Problem: You spend a significant amount of time commuting to and from work each day. How can you turn that time into something productive?
   • Step 1 (Fact-Finding): Consider your commute method – train, bus, or car? This will determine what activities are feasible.
   • Step 2 (Solution-Finding): Explore options – listen to educational podcasts or audiobooks to learn new things. Catch up on work emails or make calls using a hands-free device. Use the time to relax and unwind – read a book, listen to music, or simply enjoy some quiet time to yourself.

2. The Difficult Conversation (Fact-Finding & Solution-Finding)

   • Problem: You need to have a difficult conversation with a colleague, but you’re unsure how to approach it professionally and respectfully.
   • Step 1 (Fact-Finding): Define your goal – what outcome do you hope to achieve from this conversation?
   • Step 2 (Solution-Finding): Plan your approach – practice what you want to say beforehand in a calm and assertive manner. Choose a private setting for the conversation and focus on active listening to understand your colleague’s perspective.

3. The Stubborn Stain (Fact-Finding & Solution-Finding)

   • Problem: You spilt coffee on your favorite shirt, and the stain won’t budge! Don’t despair, there might be a solution.
   • Step 1 (Fact-Finding): Identify the type of stain and the fabric of the shirt. This will determine the best cleaning approach.
   • Step 2 (Solution-Finding): Research online for natural cleaning solutions suitable for the specific stain and fabric. Always test the solution on an inconspicuous area of the garment before applying it directly to the stain.

4. The Lost Keys (Agile Idea-Finding & Solution-Finding)

   • Problem: You’re running late for an important appointment, and you can’t find your keys anywhere!
   • Step 1 (Agile Idea-Finding): Retrace your steps – where did you last see them? Check all your pockets and usual places you might leave them.
   • Step 2 (Solution-Finding): Explore options – do you have a spare key hidden somewhere? Can you call a trusted friend or neighbor to let you in? Consider using a key finder app to track your keys in the future.

5. The Forgotten Birthday (Fact-Finding & Solution-Finding)

   • Problem: You completely forgot about a friend’s birthday! How can you salvage the situation?

• • Step 1 (Fact-Finding): Consider your friend’s personality – what kind of gesture would they appreciate most? A heartfelt phone call, a funny text message acknowledging your forgetfulness, or a small, belated gift might do the trick.
  • Step 2 (Solution-Finding): Send a sincere message expressing your good wishes and apologize for forgetting. Consider making it up to them later with a thoughtful gesture, like treating them to lunch or coffee, or planning a fun activity together.

Here are some examples showcasing how the 5-Step Osborn-Parnes Creative Problem Solving Model can be applied in healthcare, education, and entrepreneurship:

Creative Problem Solving in Healthcare:

Problem 1: Hospitals are facing overcrowding in emergency rooms

Hospitals are facing overcrowding in emergency rooms, leading to long wait times and frustration for patients.

• Step 1 (Fact-Finding): Analyze data on patient demographics and reasons for ER visits.
• Step 2 (Solution-Finding with User Validation): Explore options – implement a triage system to prioritize urgent cases, offer telehealth consultations for non-emergency cases, or establish partnerships with urgent care clinics to divert patients with less critical needs.
• Step 3 (Solution-Finding & User Validation): Pilot test a chosen solution in a specific department and gather feedback from patients and staff to refine the approach before wider implementation.

Problem 2: Adherence to medication regimens is a major challenge:

Adherence to medication regimens is a major challenge, leading to poorer health outcomes for patients with chronic conditions.

• Step 1 (User-Centered Fact-Finding): Identify barriers to medication adherence – cost, forgetfulness, side effects.
• Step 2 (Solution-Finding): Explore options – develop medication reminder apps, offer pill organizers and dosage tracking tools, or partner with pharmacies to provide medication packaging with personalized reminders.
• Step 3 (Solution-Finding with User Validation): Involve patients in the design and testing of solutions to ensure they address their specific needs and preferences.

Creative Problem Solving in Education:

Problem 1: Traditional lecture-based learning disengaging for students

Traditional lecture-based learning can be disengaging for students, hindering their understanding and retention of information.

• Step 1 (Fact-Finding): Research different learning styles and preferences among students.
• Step 2 (Solution-Finding): Explore options – incorporate more interactive activities like simulations, gamification, or group projects, or offer flipped classroom models where students learn concepts independently and use classroom time for application and discussion.
• Step 3 (Solution-Finding & User Validation): Pilot test new teaching methods with a small group of students and gather feedback to gauge effectiveness and engagement before wider implementation.

Problem 2: Students struggle with standardized testing

Many students struggle with standardized testing, leading to anxiety and potentially hindering their academic progress.

• Step 1 (User-Centered Fact-Finding): Identify the root causes of test anxiety – fear of failure, lack of confidence, or inadequate test-taking strategies.
• Step 2 (Solution-Finding): Explore options – offer workshops on test-taking strategies and stress management techniques, provide students with practice tests and personalized feedback, or create a supportive and encouraging learning environment.
• Step 3 (Solution-Finding & User Validation): Track student performance and anxiety levels before and after implementing new support measures to measure the effectiveness of the solutions.

Creative Problem Solving in Entrepreneurship:

Problem 1: Startup struggling to attract and retain customers

A startup is struggling to attract and retain customers in a highly competitive market.

• Step 1 (Fact-Finding): Analyze competitor offerings, customer demographics, and market trends.
• Step 2 (Solution-Finding): Explore options – refine the product or service to better address customer needs, develop a unique selling proposition (USP) to differentiate themselves, or implement innovative marketing strategies to reach a wider audience.
• Step 3 (Agile Idea-Finding & User Validation): Experiment with different marketing campaigns and track their effectiveness, gather customer feedback through surveys or focus groups to continuously improve their offering.

Problem 2: A small business facing a cash flow shortage

A small business is facing a cash flow shortage, hindering its ability to invest in growth opportunities.

• Step 1 (Fact-Finding): Analyze spending patterns and identify areas where costs can be optimized.
• Step 2 (Solution-Finding): Explore options – negotiate better rates with vendors, explore alternative financing options, or implement strategies to increase sales and revenue generation.
• Step 3 (Solution-Finding & User Validation): Develop a financial plan with realistic projections and timelines for achieving financial stability. Seek expert advice from financial consultants or mentors if needed.

These are few examples to demonstrate how the 5-step model can be a powerful tool for tackling challenges and fostering innovative solutions across various fields. By following these steps and embracing a creative mindset, individuals and teams can overcome obstacles and achieve success.

We have mentioned some of the techniques above, but let’s look at them wholistically.

Creative Problem Solving Techniques

Here are some commonly used CPS Techniques that can be applied within the 5-Step Model or independently:

Fact-Finding Techniques

• Fact-Finding Questions: Asking focused questions to gather information about the problem, user needs, and context.
• Data Analysis: Analyzing existing data (e.g., user surveys, sales figures) to identify trends and patterns.
• 5 Whys: Asking “Why?” five times in a row to drill down to the root cause of a problem.

Idea-Finding Techniques

• Brainstorming: Generating a large number of ideas in a short time frame, encouraging wild and unconventional suggestions.
• Brainwriting: A silent brainstorming technique where participants write down ideas individually, then build upon each other’s ideas in a round-robin style.
• SCAMPER: An acronym that prompts exploration of ideas by Substituting, Combining, Adapting, Modifying, Putting to other uses, Eliminating, and Rearranging components of the existing situation.
• Random Word Association: Using random words to spark new ideas and connections that might not have been considered otherwise.

Solution-Finding Techniques

• Selection Matrix: Evaluating potential solutions based on pre-defined criteria (e.g., feasibility, cost, effectiveness) to identify the most promising options.
• Prototyping: Creating a rough model or mock-up to test and refine a solution before investing significant resources.
• Proof of Concept: Conducting a small-scale experiment or trial to validate the feasibility and effectiveness of a proposed solution.

User Validation Techniques

• User Testing: Gathering feedback from potential users on proposed solutions to identify areas for improvement and ensure the solution meets their needs.
• Focus Groups: Moderated discussions with a small group of users to gain insights into their perceptions, needs, and preferences.
• A/B Testing: Comparing two versions of a solution (e.g., website design) to see which one performs better with users.

These are just a few examples, and the most effective techniques will depend on the specific problem and context. The 5-Step Model provides a framework for integrating various techniques at different stages of the problem-solving process.

Conclusion

So there you have it! These 21 inspiring examples showcase the power of creative problem-solving. Remember, a little ingenuity can go a long way in overcoming obstacles. Next time you face a challenge, don’t be afraid to think outside the box and explore unconventional solutions. You might be surprised at what you can achieve!

Creative Problem Solving – FAQs