Article

Creativity is a Round Process

Written by Lorraine Ball

Topic: CreativityPublished October 31, 2006
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In a world of fast change and fierce competition, the ability to find new and innovative solutions is necessary for your survival. Thinking power and creativity are your primary competitive advantages. Unlocking new ideas, and multiple possibilities begins with a "Round Process". ResearchnnTo produce creative output, you need creative input! Collecting a variety of information, without worrying how it fits, is the foundation of the research phase.nn-Explore your environment for new ideas n-Seek inspiration in naturen-Develop abilities and talents, enhance your educationn-Analyzing data and historical trendsnnSquidoo.com is a Great Starting Point for ResearchnnOriginatennThe second step is the most fun, because in this phase, everything is possible. Bring together team members and peers for a short, but lively session of Originating. This process works well with a diverse group, people with very different skills, personality styles and experiencenn-Brainstorm and "what-if."n-Generate many, many ideasn-Use your imagination, think, ponder, daydreamnnUnitennAs you review the ideas you have generated, you select a few to explore in greater detail. As you embrace these ideas, you unite related concepts, look for connections and ways to build on the ideas of others.nn-Borrow ideas from others n-Invent and innovate n-Make decisionsnnNurturennIn the next phase, you refine and improve your ideas. By identifying and eliminating obstacles you nurture the best ideas, giving them the chance to blossom and grow.nn-Objectively evaluate an idea n-Reject what doesn't work n-Simplify the over-complicated nnnDo-ItnnFinally you must commit to a course of action. In the Do-It phase you make the decision to go forward, and never give up.nn-Market your idean-Deal with critics n-Survive success n-And Begin Again! Bring Creative Thinking to Your Organization!nn

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About the Author

A trained facilitator, she has taught managers in some of the largest companies in the country how to use creativity, positive energy and collaboration as the foundation of their planning process.Today, she teaches small business owners how to apply those same techniques to stay one step ahead of the competition!