Creative Problem Solving, or Brainstorming is a process by which groups or individuals come up with multiple solutions for a given problem,

and then evaluate those solutions for their effectiveness. By working together as a group, and feeding off each others ideas, more solutions are often generated than when working alone.

The goal is to produce creative, workable solutions to the given problem or challenge.

 The

steps involved in Creative Problem Solving were first conceived of and defined by Alex Osborn, the founder of the Creative Education Foundation, more than 50 years ago.
Osborn was soon joined by Sidney Parnes, and this method of problem solving is sometimes called the Osborn-Parnes Creative Problem Solving Process.

Mr.

 Objective
Fact

Finding

Finding

Problem
Idea

Finding

Finding Finding Finding

Solution

Acceptance

Objective Finding Identify Problem

What is the goal, or challenge upon which you wish to work?

Some questions to consider: What would you like to accomplish, or achieve? What would you like to happen? In what ways are you inefficient? What ideas would you like to get going?

Fact Finding Gather Data

What is the situation, or background?

Some questions to consider: Who, What, When, Where, and How Who is or should be involved? What is or is not happening? When does this or should this happen? Where does or doesnt it occur? Why does it or doesnt it happen? How does it of doesnt it occur?

Problem Finding Clarify the Problem

What is the problem or concern that really needs to be addressed?

Some questions to consider: What is the real problem? What is the main objective? What do you really want to accomplish? Why do you want to do that?

Idea Finding Generate Ideas

What are all the possible solutions for the problem at hand?

Some general guidelines: All thoughts and ideas should be shared, without regard for their possible effectiveness Ideas, even if silly, generate more ideas Thoughts and ideas should never be criticized or, at this point, evaluated

Solution Finding Select Solutions

What solution or solutions would work best, given the problem at hand?

Some questions to consider: Will it work? Is it legal? Are the materials and technology available? Are the costs acceptable? If applicable, will the public accept it? If applicable, will those in charge accept it?

Acceptance Finding Plan for Action

What are the specific steps that need to take place in order to implement your solution?

Some things to consider: What is the plan for action? What is the timeline involved for implementation?

 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alex_Osborn
http://members.optusnet.com.au/charles57/Creative

/Brain/cps.htm http://www.cpsiconference.com/cps_process.cfm