Creativity
One definition of creative thinking is the merging two previously uncombined thoughts, products or processes. Areas within creativity are:
Brainstorming is a method used to create new ideas by suspending judgment.
Concept Mapping is a structured process, focused on a topic or construct of interest, involving input from one or more participants, that produces an interpretable pictorial view (concept map) of their ideas and concepts and how these are interrelated.
Mind Mapping is a graphics-based method of taking notes, brainstorming, and organizing thoughts that helps you relate and arrange random ideas into memorable tree-like diagrams The difference between concept maps and mind maps is that a mind map has only one main concept, while a concept map may have several. This comes down to the point that a mind map can be represented as a tree, while a concept map may need a network representation.
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Problem Solving
The difference between Creativity products and Problem Solving products are not as clear-cut as this categorization leads you to believe. For example creativity processes, such as brainstorming and concept maps, can be used to solve problems. Areas within Problem Solving are:
Critical Path Analysis (Project Management) is a method of analyzing a complex project. It helps you to calculate the minimum length of time in which the project can be completed, and which activities should be prioritized to complete by that date.
Decision Trees provide an effective structure in which alternative decisions and the implications of taking those decisions can be displayed and evaluated. They are excellent tools for making financial or number based decisions where a lot of complex information needs to be taken into account.
Root Cause Analysis is a method or series of actions taken to find out why a particular failure or problem exists and correcting those causes. It is similar to what detectives do when a crime occurs or what the NTSB does when an airplane crashes.
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