Creative Problem Solving

Creative problem-solving is the mental process of searching for an original and unobvious solution to a problem. To qualify, the solution must be novel and reached independently.

Creative problem-solving usually begins by defining the problem. This may lead to a simple non-creative solution or finding a textbook solution. The process may also lead to the discovery of prior solutions by others. In such cases, the process may then be abandoned if the discovered solution is sufficient. Typically, a creative solution will have distinct characteristics that include using only existing components or the problematic factor as the basis for the solution, or involving a change of perspective. A solution may also be considered creative if readily available components can be used to solve the problem within a short time limit factors typical to the solutions employed in MacGyver by the title character.

If a creative solution has broad use—that is, uses beyond its original intent—it may be referred to as an innovative solution, or an innovation. This term is also used to refer to the process of creating innovative solutions. Some innovations may also be considered as an invention.

"All innovations [begin] as creative solutions, but not all creative solutions become innovations."

Many techniques and tools for creating effective solutions to a problem are described in creativity techniques and problem solving.

Creative problem-solving techniques can be categorized as follows:

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