Problem definition, divergent thinking, and decision support: An empirical analysis

The process of defining a problem guides the mind toward consideration of a solution. The original formulation of a problem definition creates a structure for the kinds of solutions to be considered later on in the process. Anecdotal beliefs stress that the quality of problem definition is key to successful problem solution. This dissertation presents research on two facets of problem definition. Can the use of creativity tools in support of divergent thinking improve problem definition? In conjunction with this, are decision support systems effective in supporting the divergent thinking process? The beast measure of problem definition quality is to test the results. Does more effective problem definition lead to better alternative generation?;Data were collected from 111 graduate students using software designed specifically for this study. The subjects were given a problem scenario and asked to generate new problem definitions. One treatment group was given instructions on how to use the 5Ws creativity methodology, and another group was given software designed to support 5Ws. After generating new problem definitions, all subjects were asked to generate alternative solutions based on their problem definitions.;The information gathering and problem definition processes were measured using fluency (the number of questions or definitions) and flexibility (the number of stakeholders considered). Alternative generation was analyzed using these two measures along with degree of goal attainment, and the economic value of the solution.;Both manual and computerized creative support for information gathering were found to be significant, as was the relationship between problem definition and alternative generation. The results indicate that creative methods are effective in enhancing divergent thinking during information gathering, and that computer supported creative methods are superior.