Creative problem-solving is the mental process of searching for an original and not-obvious solution to a problem. To qualify, the solution must be novel and reached independently.
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The creative solution
Creative problem-solving usually begins by defining the problem. This may lead to a simple non-creative solution, or finding a “textbook solution." The process may also lead to the discovery of prior solutions by others. The process, in these cases, may then be abandoned, if the discovered solution is “good enough." Typically a creative solution will have "elegant” characteristics, such as using only existing components; using the problematic factor as the basis for the solution; or involving a change of perspective. A solution may also be considered creative if readily available components can be used to solve the problem within a short time limit, factors typical to the solutions employed in MacGyver by the title character.
If a creative solution has broad use—that is, uses beyond its original intent—it may be referred to as an innovative solution, or an innovation. This term is also used to refer to the process of creating innovative solutions. Some innovations may also considered inventions.
"All innovations [begin] as creative solutions, but not all creative solutions become innovations."
Techniques and tools
Many of the techniques and tools for creating an effective solution to a problem are described in creativity techniques and problem solving.
Creative problem-solving technique categories
Creative problem-solving techniques can be categorized as follows: