a simple theory, problem solving methodologies

model

1. A Simple Theory Underlying
Structured, Problem-Solving
Methodologies
–ASIT, TRIZ, USIT and Others
Ed Sickafus, PhD
Modified by Teguh
Bharata Adji
Second TRIZ Symposium in Japan
Aug. 31 -Sept. 2, 2006 --Suita, Osaka, Japan

2. Structured Problem Solving Theory 2
They way we think during
structured-problem solving,
differs from the way it is taught.
Understandingthis differenceand
how we use our mental resources
can aid our innovative application
of any structured methodology.

3. Structured Problem Solving Theory 3
Structured problem-solving methods are
logicaland organized,
while our natural thinking is not.
Assumption
A causeof methodology complexityis its
logical idealization as compared with our
natural method of thinking.

4. Structured Problem Solving Theory 4
Although neitherorganized norlogical,
natural thinkinghas resourcesoften
overlooked/left.
Assumption
Our innovativeproblem-solving skills can
be improvedw/ morenatural thinking
and the use of allour thinking resources.

5. Structured Problem Solving Theory 5
Insight of two halves of our brains
Bothperformreasoning,
remembering, communication, and
problem solving. But bothdo them
differentlyand sharetheir results.
Example:
Oneis betterat logicand the other
betterat understanding metaphors
(=a
figure of speech by comparison = figurative languange>< symbolic language)
.

6. Structured Problem Solving Theory 6
LH
(=Left Hemisphere)
and RHsimultaneously
receive the same sensory information
but process it by their own protocols.
Eachis aware of the other through
the joining corpus callosum.
How they (LH&RH) think is unknown.
LH RH

7. Structured Problem Solving Theory 7
LHusually controls languageand
logic.
Technologistsare considered to be
influenced more by their LHsand
artisansmore by their RHs.
RHis better at visualizationof spatial
relationships and use of metaphors.

8. Structured Problem Solving Theory 8
Definition of a creative person
“ … someone who can processin new
waysthe data/information directly at hand–
the ordinary sensory data available to all of
us.”
Betty Edwards, PhD
= one having a new point of view.
LH RH

9. Structured Problem Solving Theory 9
Problem solving in dreams
History has many tales of
technologistsbeing
stymied/blocked/hindered by a
problemfor long periods, then
discoveringthe answer metaphorically
ina dream.
Is this RH finally being heard?
LH RH

10. Structured Problem Solving Theory 10
Herein, thinkingrefersto the conscious
and subconsciousprocessesused in
problem solving.
We are awareof the conscious, we
cannot know the subconscious.
Conscious
Subconscious
LH RH

11. Structured Problem Solving Theory 11
While we cannot know the activities of our
subconscious,
we can, through introspection, make
useful deductions about thinking and use
them to engage
(=carry out)
best practices for
innovation.
Conscious
Subconscious
LH
RH
This requires
language–an
LH trait
=character
.
This language:
tool for
communication
between
conscious&
subconscious.

12. Structured Problem Solving Theory 12
Communication of problem solving
is orderly,
like this …
Definition SolutionAnalysis

13. Structured Problem Solving Theory 13
Thinking while problem solving is
not orderly.
It is not like this …
nor this …
Definition SolutionAnalysis
Definition Analysis
Solution

14. Structured Problem Solving Theory 14
Typically, problem solving beginwith an
instantaneous, intuitive, solution concept.
It is tested and modifiediterativelyas
necessary for acceptanceor rejection.
Definition simplifies/ Analysis clarifies
Solution
Analysis
Definition

15. Structured Problem Solving Theory 15
From this
observation we
learn that in our
natural mode of
thinking, while
problem solving,
the contentof
structure is
important notits
order.
LH RH

16. Structured Problem Solving Theory 16
Communication must be organized
Organization is a heuristic for
communication not for thinking.
We thinkdisorganizedthoughtsbut
must organizethem for
communication –a tedious process.
Several types of thinking have been
identified with tendencies for LH and
RH preferences.

17. Structured Problem Solving Theory 17
Right HemisphereLeft Hemisphere
Copying of designsLanguage skills
Discrimination of shapesSkilled movement
Reading facesKeeping time
MusicHigher-order mathematics
Understanding metaphorsSymbolic relationships
Holistic processingWork in order
Experiencing & expressing
emotions

18. Structured Problem Solving Theory 18
Summary of our thinking traits
=character
Nonverbal
Synthetic
Actual, real
Analogic
Non-temporal
Non-rational
Spatial
Intuitive
Holistic
Verbal
Analytic
Symbolic
Abstract
Temporal
Rational
Digital
Logical
Linear
LH RH
Non-verbal cognition
/
perceipt
Form whole things
Relating to the present
Understand metaphor
Space more important
Suspend judgment
How parts go together
Leaps/jumpsof insight
Sees overall pattern

19. Structured Problem Solving Theory 19
To maximizeour creativethinking
(not communication) we need to
subdue/controlLH’slogical reasoning
while encouragingRH’smetaphorical
thinking.
Structure & language are the toolsof
logical communication.
Image & metaphor
=figurative lang.
are the
toolsof creative thinking.

20. THANKYOU
Q&A