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USING THE TECHNIQUES

This book closes with two brief discussions: one on the use
of intuition in innovation, the other on using the techniques
described in this book.

USINGYOUR INTUITION

Intuition can and should be used in all stages of creative prob-
lem solving. Rationality is a major contributor to the prob-
lem-solving process, but rationality alone does not result in
the best solutions to many problems, especially complex
problems. If rationality alone sufficed, computers would
make all the decisions. As problems become more complex,
the need to use intuition in problem solving becomes more
critical. Research and experience indicate that complex prob-
lems almost defy rational analysis. They require the ability
to see connections among numerous variables, connections
that often are not discernible in the rational approach.' The
advice offered by many experts is to trust your intuition, to
let it help you solve problems. To gain skill in using intu-
ition in solving problems, it is necessary to practice doing so
in real situations as well as decision simulations. The third
book in this trilogy, Escape From the Maze: Improving Personal
and Group Creativity, discusses intuition in greater depth.

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CREATIVE
PROBLEM
SOLVING
TECHNIQUI

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