Creative Problem Solving Process
Encyclopedia
The Creative Problem Solving Process (CPS), also known as the Osborn-Parnes CPS process, was developed by Alex Osborn and Dr. Sidney J. Parnes
in the 1950s. CPS is a structured method for generating novel and useful solutions to problems. CPS follows three process stages, which match a person's natural creative process, and six explicit steps:
CPS is flexible, and its use depends on the situation. The steps can be (and often are) used in a linear fashion, from start to finish, but it is not necessary to use all the steps. For example, if one already has a clearly defined problem, the process would begin at Idea Finding.
What distinguishes the Osborn-Parnes CPS process from other "creative problem solving" methods is the use of both divergent
and convergent thinking
during each process step, and not just when generating ideas to solve the problem. Each step begins with divergent thinking, a broad search for many alternatives. This is followed by convergent thinking, the process of evaluating and selecting.
This method is taught at the International Center for Studies in Creativity
, the Creative Problem Solving Institute, and CREA Conference
. It is specifically acknowledged as a key influence for the Productive Thinking Model
.
Sid Parnes
Dr. Sidney J. Parnes is a retired professor at Buffalo State College and the co-founder of the International Center for Studies in Creativity. The Center is housed within Dr. Sidney J...
in the 1950s. CPS is a structured method for generating novel and useful solutions to problems. CPS follows three process stages, which match a person's natural creative process, and six explicit steps:
| Process Stage | Steps |
|---|---|
| Explore the Challenge | Objective Finding (identify the goal, wish or challenge) |
| Fact Finding (gather the relevant data) | |
| Problem Finding (clarify the problems that need to be solved in order to achieve the goal) | |
| Generate Ideas | Idea Finding (generate ideas to solve the identified problem) |
| Prepare for Action | Solution Finding (move from idea to implementable solution) |
| Acceptance Finding (plan for action) |
CPS is flexible, and its use depends on the situation. The steps can be (and often are) used in a linear fashion, from start to finish, but it is not necessary to use all the steps. For example, if one already has a clearly defined problem, the process would begin at Idea Finding.
What distinguishes the Osborn-Parnes CPS process from other "creative problem solving" methods is the use of both divergent
Divergent thinking
Divergent thinking is a thought process or method used to generate creative ideas by exploring many possible solutions. It is often used in conjunction with convergent thinking, which follows a particular set of logical steps to arrive at one solution, which in some cases is a "correct" solution...
and convergent thinking
Convergent thinking
Convergent thinking is a term coined by Joy Paul Guilford as the opposite of divergent thinking. It generally means the ability to give the "correct" answer to standard questions that do not require significant creativity, for instance in most tasks in school and on standardized multiple-choice...
during each process step, and not just when generating ideas to solve the problem. Each step begins with divergent thinking, a broad search for many alternatives. This is followed by convergent thinking, the process of evaluating and selecting.
This method is taught at the International Center for Studies in Creativity
International Center For Studies In Creativity
As the first and oldest degree granting program in creativity in the world, the foundation of the International Center For Studies In Creativity dates back to Alex Osborn's seminal work in creativity education in the 1940s and 1950s....
, the Creative Problem Solving Institute, and CREA Conference
Creativity European Association
Creativity European Association holds an annual conference for people who wish to share ideas on how to live and work creatively. It has been held every spring in Sestri Levante, Italy since its founding in 2003....
. It is specifically acknowledged as a key influence for the Productive Thinking Model
Productive Thinking Model
The Productive Thinking Model was developed by Tim Hurson, a Canadian author, speaker, and creativity theorist. It is a structured approach to solving problems or generating creative ideas that is based in part on the Creative Problem Solving Process and NASA's IDEF...
.
See also
- PDCAPDCAPDCA is an iterative four-step management method used in business for the control and continuous improvement of processes and products...
, 4 step problem solving technique - Productive Thinking ModelProductive Thinking ModelThe Productive Thinking Model was developed by Tim Hurson, a Canadian author, speaker, and creativity theorist. It is a structured approach to solving problems or generating creative ideas that is based in part on the Creative Problem Solving Process and NASA's IDEF...
, 6 step problem solving technique based on CPS