Lateral thinking
This is recognised as "serious creativity"
"The sort of thinking computers can not do" : Edward de Bono
It is about moving sideways from existing solutions and investigating other methods of solving the problem.It is the backbone of the Creative Confrontation Methods.
It follows radical and innovative thought paths.
There are two applications for Lateral thinking
- For General Topics - Exploring many possibilities Instead of one
- For Specific Problems - Changing concepts and generating new ones with the same goal
Random Stimulus (stimulating words)
Random Stimulus (stimulating words)
This is a simple technique that is in essence a game of chance.
Choose a word, object or image entirely at random and create a link between it and the problem.
This creates a path on which a solution or direction for a solution may lie.
Other variants of the method using 2 or more ideas exist. Eg 2 words from a newspaper.
Intermediate Impossible
This Method is a stepping stone method where a total idealistic or seemingly impossible idea is suggested.
Then a link path is generated to the initial problem.
There will be gradual set of solutions evolved with variable levels of rational.
This method allows any barriers or self-imposed constraints to be high lighted.
Concept Challenge
Take an established statement associated with the problem, that is normally taken for granted.
Try to undermine it in any way possible and then starting from there create new solutions.
Six Thinking Hats
"Thinking is the ultimate human resource. Yet we can never be satisfied with our most important skill. No matter how good we become, we should always want to be better" Edward de Bono
This system of creativity was invented in the early 80s.
It is a systematic method that creates a direction of thought rather that a label for thinking.
There are 6 metaphorical hats thus 6 different ways to tackle a problem.
The objectives of the system are as follows:
- Encourage Parallel Thinking
- Encourage full-spectrum thinking
- Separate ego from performance
The various thinking hats are:
| White | Facts, figures and objective information |
| Red | Emotions and feelings |
| Black | Logical negative thoughts |
| Yellow | Positive constructive thoughts |
| Green | Creativity and new ideas |
| Blue | Overview hat and thinking steps |
This system is used by many of the worlds most successful companies. E.g. IBM, Du Pont, Polaroid, Pepsi co., Nippon Telephone and Telegraph
LARC
Left And Right Creativity
This is the process where the individual can separately use the different sides of the brain. The Left side being the rational side (Logical) and the right allowing creativive thoughts to occur (Creative).
The right brain can be stimulated by using drawing andVisual imageing.
WILLIAMS R and STOCKMYER J 1987, "unleasing the right side of the brain", Stephens Greene Press
