ABSTRACT
In general, so far, computers have not been specifically harnessed to produce creative ideas and insights by themselves. Rather it has been through the interaction of people and computers that ideas have been produced.There is now a range of computer software which can be used to assist creative problem solving. This stretches from purpose-built software to more general purpose software which can be used to stimulate creative thinking. In addition, some software is useful for the individual working alone while other software is of benefit to groups of individuals working on a problem or project together.The amount of software available has expanded considerably over the past few years with much of it emanating from the USA. There are also a number of organisations producing software in Europe. Elaborate mind mapping programs and complex paradigm-stretching creative problem solving programs have come on to the scene recently. In the future we may expect to see a greater emphasis on programs that facilitate visualisation in one way or another.
