A Problem Solving / Idea Generation Exercise

Have you ever gotten so close to a problem that you just couldn't see any options? Or you really need a new and fresh idea, but you are dry as a bone? Try this quick exercise to get your creative problem solving juices flowing again.

Take a piece of paper and a pen and at the top of a page write a question that you need to have answered, a topic to brainstorm, or a problem that you need to solve. Then, write these words down the left hand column of your page; Outside, Inside, Blind spot, Warning and Power. Let the questions from each category prompt you to look at your problem or opportunity from fresh perspectives. Take notes and see what ideas or solutions emerge. This exercise can be done alone or with a group.

Outside: Think of all of the external forces going on outside of your problem or issue. What things are happening around you that could have an influence on this issue? List every environmental factor that seems relevant. What are my competitors doing? Who or what can impact this issue? Are there other people or organization for which we could partner to solve this problem? Who is impacted by the problem and would benefit from a solution?

Inside: This represents you. What's going on within you that will have an impact on this problem or issue. Maybe the inside is your entire organization; what's happening with the employees that may factor into our problem or need? What resources or ideas exist within you to help you with your need? What personal or organizational strengths and weaknesses do you bring to the table for this issue?

Blind spot: This represents something that you may not be considering that could affect your solution. What may be hidden from your view? Is this idea new enough? What different angles can you look at your problem or challenge that will reveal those hidden blind spots? Has this problem been solved already? Is the perceived need really a need?

Warning: This represents things for which you should be very careful. Has this solution failed in the past? Will you face political resistance? Are you addressing a symptom or a cause in your solution? What are some possible ways this idea could backfire? Is what you are working on important, but not urgent enough to warrant action at this time?

Power: This represents the greatest strengths of your idea or solution. What about this will guarantee that it will work? How do you know it will work? When brainstorming, ask the question; which one or two of these ideas encompass others? What one thing can we do to absolutely insure success? What one thing could we do to safeguard against failure?

Hopefully, after doing this exercise you or your group will have some brilliant light bulbs illuminating solutions and ideas for your most important challenges.