Creative Problem-Solving for Information Management Practitioners

The ability to solve problems creatively is essential in organisations but I don't often see it being used effectively. Creative problem solving involves thinking outside the box, challenging the norm and seeking solutions to problems. 

Creative problem solving is about approaching challenges with an open mind and a willingness to explore new possibilities. It involves looking at what you are currently doing and the challenges you from different angles, questioning assumptions and generating a whole world of new ideas. The goal is to find solutions that work.

The creative problem-solving process typically involves several stages.

Stage 1 – Identify the problem

The first step is to clearly define the problem you are trying to solve. It involves understanding the context in which it exists. There are several business analysis techniques that can help you in this stage.

One technique is requirements gathering. This involves collecting detailed information about the needs and expectations of stakeholders. You can use methods like interviews, surveys and focus groups to gather this information. This helps you to understand the problem from different perspectives and ensures that all relevant factors are considered.

Stage 2 – Generate amazing ideas

Once the challenge is identified, the next step is to mind map and generate a wide range of ideas. This stage is about quantity, not quality. The more ideas you generate, the more likely you are to find a creative and practical solution. When I am with my team, I have always opened these creative brainstorming sessions by saying 'if money wasn't an object, what could we do?' This really helps to open the mind as you remove the barrier of finance and then, when all the ideas are on the table, you, hopefully, will find a way within your budget that overcomes the challenge.

Another useful technique is creating user stories. Keep them short, simple descriptions of a feature told from the perspective of the end user. They help in capturing specific requirements and expectations, making it easier to understand the problem and its impact on a person.

Additionally, mind mapping can be used to visually organise information about the problem. This technique helps in exploring and connecting different aspects of the problem, making it easier to identify the key issues and their interrelationships.

Stage 3 – Evaluate and refine your ideas

After generating ideas, the next step is to evaluate and refine them. This involves discussing the feasibility and impact on the business of each idea and selecting the best ones.

SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) is another beneficial technique. It helps to identify the internal and external factors that can affect the problem. By analysing these factors, you can develop a clearer understanding of the challenges and potential solutions.

Stage 4 – Implement solutions

The final step is to implement the solutions and execute! How do you make decisions and evaluate what is right? Let's look at this in more detail.

Decision-making models

Successful decision-making is a key element of problem solving. But how do you make decisions? According to the Harvard Business Review, great decisions are shaped by considering different viewpoints, addressing the root cause of issues, balancing short-term and long-term value, and making timely choices. Psychology Today suggests breaking down decisions according to core values, managing emotions and thinking about decisions as the best choice under the circumstances, rather than a 'right' or 'wrong' choice.

Collaboration is a key component of problem solving. By working together, teams can contribute their different perspectives and expertise to generate more innovative ideas and better outcomes. Real collaboration requires clear communication, a common respect and a shared vision.

Several barriers can stop creative problem solving, including fear of failure, lack of resources and a fixed mindset. To overcome these barriers, it is important to create a supportive environment that encourages experimentation or entrepreneurship and risk taking. This involves embracing a culture of openness and trust, providing access to resources and tools, and promoting a growth mindset.

So now we have covered the basics, how can we pull all this together in our information management roles?

Conclusion

Creative problem-solving is a critical skill for information management practitioners who face increasingly complex challenges in today's data-driven environment. By following these structured stages and embracing collaborative approaches, you can transform obstacles into opportunities for innovation and growth.

This is an excerpt from "Blooming Good Information Management" by Jacqueline Stockwell, CEO of Leadership Through Data. The book provides a comprehensive guide for information professionals using Leadership Through Data's EMPOWER Framework, a comprehensive approach that helps professionals assess their skills and identify areas for improvement

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