ABSTRACT

This accessible text provides a lively introduction to the essential skills of creative problem solving. Using extensive case-studies and examples from a range of business situations, it explores various problem-solving theories and techniques, illustrating how these can be used to solve a range of management problems.

Thoroughly revised and redesigned, this new edition retains the accessible and imaginative approach to problem-solving skills of the first edition. Contents include:

* blocks to creativity and how to overcome them
* key techniques including lateral thinking, morphological analysis and synectics
* computer-assisted problem solving
* increased coverage of group problem-solving techniques and paradigm shift.

As creativity is increasingly recognized as a key skill for successful managers, this book will be welcomed as a comprehensive introduction for students and practising managers alike.

chapter 1|22 pages

Creativity and its importance in business

chapter 2|23 pages

Blocks to creativity

chapter 6|19 pages

Brainstorming and its variants

chapter 7|23 pages

Lateral thinking and associated methods

chapter 8|19 pages

Synectics

chapter 10|26 pages

Evaluation

chapter 11|20 pages

Implementing ideas

chapter 12|19 pages

Computer-assisted creative problem solving