Reference no: EM132306275

Section One: Divergent Thinking Meet with several people at work, or with others who have a vested interested in your problem. Use divergent thinking (brainstorming) with them to generate as many possible solutions to your problem as you can (aim for 12–15). Make notes about this process – not only the solutions offered, but a description of how the session went. Were members hesitant? Did ideas flow smoothly? Observe the process overall and comment on it along with your list of solutions. Some people like to supplement the written description/list by creating a mind-map diagram or other illustration showing the possible solutions in a visual, creative way. These diagrams can be valuable and more telling than a list. Adhere to the following rules of divergent thinking in order to generate solutions and alternate solutions: Do not evaluate or criticize any responses during your brainstorming session. Remember: the more ideas, the better. Set a time limit (e.g., 15–30 minutes). Build upon or "piggyback" on others' ideas. Section Two: Convergent Thinking Use convergent thinking to narrow down your list of possible solutions and group them into like categories (winnow and cluster, as Jones calls it). Review, consolidate, and narrow down your divergent list until you can analyze each possible solution separately and systematically. Place your solutions into as few as possible themes or categories. List your possible solutions that are practical and have a high potential for success. Write 1–2 sentences for each of the possible solutions justifying why those solutions have a high probability for success. Combine the answers that are similar or repetitive. Combine like concepts. Eliminate responses that do not fit. Compare your solutions to your problem statement for fit. Section Three: Black Hat or Devil's Advocate Process Examine 2–4 of the best possible solutions from your list, using the Black Hat point of view. Use the questions in the assignment as your guide to thinking. Approach this part as though you really have to know your possible solutions inside & out so that you can defend them. You may find that some of the solutions won't hold up well to scrutiny. Use the following key questions with your "Black Hat" from de Bono's Six Thinking Hats and your readings in Chapter 12 of Jones (1998) on devil's advocacy. Be sure to focus on the opposite viewpoint of your potential solutions. Why should this solution be implemented? What could go wrong if this solution is implemented? What are the weaknesses and risks of this solution? How else could this problem be resolved? Who might resist? What is not being considered that should be?