innovativeproblemsolving

An innovative problem-solver doesn’t do different things, but they do things differently.

We live in a dynamic environment with information exponentiality and “VUCA” reality. Problems turn out to be more complex and interdependent. Problem-solving is about seeing a problem and actually finding a solution to that problem; an innovative problem-solving scenario is actually a process of deduction to derive a solution drawing from knowledge, experience, and out-of-the-box creativity for achieving customer delight.

Do not get trapped in the same old box when trying to figure out the solution: Innovative problem solving is about how to think differently, unconventionally, or from a new perspective for either defining or solving problems effectively. Assessing and defining the problems is usually more important than solving the problem. A solution is vague or temporary if the problem is not perceived comprehensively. Until the underlying problem is addressed, the symptom will continue to return. Trying to think out of the box and seeing things from different angles are the necessary steps in innovative problem-solving.

Generally speaking, a problem is a difference between an expectation and the current reality. With blurred territories and cross-domain interconnectivity and interaction, many problems become more complex. It’s important to understand the situation and the interdependence between problems. Out-of-box problem-solving is about leveraging multidimensional viewpoints, applying fresh knowledge or deep insight to understand how different perspectives are integrated into the solution that is different from conventional ways to get things done. “Out of the box” problem-solving scenario is still logical, focusing on the ultimate goal, a motivation to explore proposals, and a willingness to imaginatively explore alternative solutions.

Simplicity in problem-solving - the art of maximizing the amount of work not done is essential: Many problems are complex because there are varying components involved and many people get affected, with a mix of old and new, solid and flow, truth and false. Thus, it’s important to apply simplicity as a principle, to eliminate redundancy, so quintessential comes to the scene; to get rid of waste, efficiency is the theme. Simplicity can be conveyed through different angles; simplicity means delightful products or services with "easy to use" features from customers’ perspective; simplicity also means fewer layers and high fluidity and flexibility.

A problem has an inherent and irreducible complexity; any attempt to simplify further than that will fail and any complexity added to it is harmful. The judicious application of simplicity helps people solve problems creatively. It's important to put together a complete solution that works in the best interest of all related constituencies in the business. People with a simplicity mindset are passionate to keep optimizing solutions, making evolutionary innovation by finding the sweet spot in which they are able to leverage resources and talent to achieve higher than expected results.

Never think there is a short list of solutions you can pick from: Creative problem-solving requires a seamless paradigm shift in thinking from problem stickiness towards creating multiple pathways for discovering new possibilities. In the business world, you can't always wait for the best solution to emerge. Problem-solving is both art and science. Sometimes lack of creativity becomes a problem after many people refuse to deal with it for various reasons and ignore it until it becomes a bigger problem.

People who can solve problems in a new way are innovators. It is important to apply creativity in a recursive way to the creative process for effective problem-solving by experimenting, exploring, and encouraging a new way to understand tough issues and come up with a set of solutions in an innovative manner. The results of those alternative solutions depend on the insight that fuels them, as well as the ability to select the best ones, develop them and implement them.

Develop employees entrepreneurially and build a culture of problem-solving. An innovative problem-solver doesn’t do different things, but they do things differently. The creative logic behind problem-solving is about embracing new perspectives, breaking down conventional thinking boxes, discovering patterns, understanding customers’ wants & needs, providing alternative solutions to them for improving people-centricity.

Posted in: Innovation,Problem Solving