We are better problem solvers when we can look at problems in a new light. But, when we are truly stuck with a deskful of problems (or opportunities), it’s hard to view each from different perspectives. Where can you find a handful of useful ways to reconsider your challenges?
I’ve got your handful right here. I’ve been working with and reading about creative people for decades and have collected a list of creativity methods. These aren’t pie-in-the-sky concepts — these are practical methods for applying your own ingenuity, right now. In an enjoyably interactive session, we’ll quickly define creativity, examine a creative life or two, and get to work learning creative methods that are ready for application.
Then, after a short break, we will apply these methods to challenges that the participants are facing. (A list of these challenges can be assembled — optionally — before the presentation through an online survey.) We’ll work in small groups, each brainstorming on new solutions to vexing problems.
After a second break, we will take a broader look at the organization and focus on its positive points. This part of the workshop will support creativity by reinforcing a positive attitude about Emerson and TOD.
We’ll wrap up with a quick summary.
PROPOSED SCHEDULE
This is tentatively scheduled for the afternoon of Wednesday, October 17, 2007, and will be flexible as needed throughout the workshop.
In advance: No readings will be assigned. At client’s discretion, Young Isaac can send an online survey to the participants, to develop a list of problems that could be creatively solved.
First hour: definition of creativity, examination of creative cases, discussion and application of a short list of practical creativity tools. Some of these will be drawn from Why Not? The first hour will also include one creative team building exercise.
Second hour: application of creativity tools in small groups, each addressing a separate challenge. These challenges could be drawn from the online survey results.
Third hour: a discussion and brief application of a fundamental principle of appreciative inquiry. (Click here for a short article on appreciative inquiry.)
One week later: the management team and I will meet to debrief on the experience and discuss any recommendations for optional next steps.
The schedule currently allows 15 minutes for breaks. We might want to expand that.
Additional creative team building exercises will be added as time and participants’ willingness allow.
FACILITIES NEEDS
We’ll need a quiet room, with enough room and easel pads for breakout brainstorming sessions. A white wall or A/V screen, and a method to darken the room, would be helpful. Cookies served during a break would be helpful.
NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS
30-45
FIELD TESTED
All the material in this workshop is proven effective. I teach creativity management to MBA candidates at The Ohio State University Fisher College of Business. I’ve also taught creative living to diverse audiences, including not-for-profit administrators during a power outage at the Center of Science and Industry in Columbus, 170 entrepreneurs at the Ohio Growth Summit, the Young Professionals of Columbus, and recently divorced and separated people at the North Broadway Methodist Church (where the lights were on). For a full bio, please click here.
BUDGET
For all professional time in preparation, implementation and debrief, Young Isaac requests $3,250, plus applicable sales tax, paid in advance.