How two of the world’s largest tech companies chose CPS v6.1

THE CREATIVE PROBLEM SOLVING FRAMEWORK v6.1 © CPSB

Two of the world’s largest tech companies used the same criteria to select a problem solving framework and after careful consideration they both chose Creative Problem Solving version 6.1 (CPS v6.1), which met and/or exceeded all nine criteria – listed below.

Both companies were particularly impressed with CPS v6.1 because it is a descriptive (rather than prescriptive) framework. As a result, it allows for easy integration with other more specific processes such as Agile, SPIN, Lean, Six Sigma, and Project Management.

selection criteria for a standard problem solving process

  1. Portable: Will I be able to use the process with a minimum amount of training (use, not facilitate or lead sessions or teach others).

  2. Repeatable: Will I be able to count on consistent results from multiple teams using the process.

  3. Current Research: Will the supplier enrich the process with new findings. Such as advances in group dynamics, leadership, creativity, as they apply to problem solving.

  4. Common Language: Will it have easy to use English ‘prompts’ that step a ‘novice’ and ‘old timers’ through the process, the common language assists the facilitation.

  5. Rigorous and Comprehensive: Will it be robust enough to address multiple situations.

  6. Adjunct Facility: Will it have continuing research; contribute multiple client views/experiences; depth of instruction experience.

  7. Practitioners: Will the supplier teach and do; and have a network of facilitators and coaches.

  8. External Community: Will the supplier learn from experiences of other corporate and external users.

  9. Affordable: Will it be ‘pay back’ in return on people investment.

Additional frameworks associated with CPSv6.1

CPSv6.1 and its associated frameworks (see links below) provide a foundational interwoven latticework – a bit like a coat stand – from which you can frame your thinking AND integrate other more specialised methods and tools.

  1. The 4Ps of creativity and innovation: People, Press, Process, Product
    Quo vadis nunc?
    Educating for creativity and innovation

  2. Modes of thinking
    The design process and creative problem solving

  3. The critical path to innovation valorisation
    A day in the life of a Masters in Innovation, Creativity and Leadership detective

  4. Our best frame of mind
    Complex problem solving: Our best frame of mind

Complex problem solving, Collaboration, InnovationAndy WilkinsBlog post