Question 1

An example of not getting stuck on one problem definition was Alexander Graham Bell's invention of the telephone.

Accepted Answer

Alexander Graham Bell originally set out to improve the telegraph, but his work led to the invention of the telephone. He did not get stuck on one specific problem definition and was open to exploring other possibilities.

Question 2

A good problem definition includes differentiating factual information from speculative information.

Accepted Answer

A good problem definition should be based on factual information that can be verified and is supported by evidence, rather than speculation or subjective opinions. This helps to ensure that the problem is clearly defined and can be addressed effectively.

Question 3

A common problem in managerial decision making is that alternative solutions to problems are evaluated as they are proposed.

Accepted Answer

This is true. One solution may seem optimal at first, but further evaluation may reveal flaws or limitations which make another solution more desirable. It is important to consider all options before making a final decision.

Question 4

When defining the problem,top priority should be placed on identifying all the underlying symptoms of the problem.

Accepted Answer

When defining the problem, the priority should be on identifying the root cause of the problem, not just the symptoms. Understanding the underlying cause is essential for developing effective solutions.

Question 5

Implementation of a solution to a problem should include opportunities for feedback.

Accepted Answer

Feedback is essential for evaluating the effectiveness of a solution and making improvements as needed. It allows for adjustment and refinement of the solution based on observations and data collected from users. Therefore, implementation should always include opportunities for feedback.

Question 6

Making inappropriate assumptions that inhibit problem solutions is an example of the conceptual block of compression.

Accepted Answer

Compression refers to the act of selectively focusing on certain aspects of a problem while ignoring others, which can lead to inappropriate assumptions and hinder problem-solving.

Question 7

Conceptual blocks are mental obstacles that constrain the way problems are defined and that limit the number of alternative solutions thought to be relevant.

Accepted Answer

This statement accurately defines conceptual blocks as mental obstacles that hinder problem-solving by limiting how problems are defined and the number of potential solutions considered.

Question 8

When evaluating alternatives,one should be concerned about meeting organizational goals.

Accepted Answer

Evaluating alternatives should be done with the objective of meeting organizational goals in mind. This can ensure that the alternatives selected are aligned with the overall strategic vision for the organization and contribute to its long-term success.

Question 9

"Incubation" creative problem solving,according to the DeGraff model cited in the text,would be the pursuit of rapid goal achievement and achieving results faster than others.

Accepted Answer

According to the DeGraff model, "Incubation" creative problem solving is the process of letting ideas simmer and allowing the mind to subconsciously work on a problem, leading to a breakthrough solution. It is not focused on rapid goal achievement or achieving results faster than others.

Question 10

Finding commonalities among two things is a good way to overcome a conceptual block in problem solving.

Accepted Answer

Finding commonalities can help one see connections and similarities between two things, which can lead to new insights and solutions to problems.

Question 11

Breakthroughs,out-of-the-box thinking,and radical thinking would be a type of creative problem solving that can be called "Imagination."

Accepted Answer

Breakthroughs, out-of-the-box thinking, and radical thinking are all aspects of using one's imagination to come up with creative solutions to problems.

Question 12

Examples of the conceptual block of constancy include lateral thinking and only one thinking language.

Accepted Answer

Constancy in conceptual blocks refers to the inability to consider change or think outside the current frame of reference. Lateral thinking, however, is a method specifically designed to break free from traditional patterns and encourage innovative thinking, thus it is not an example of constancy. Similarly, being limited to only one thinking language restricts creativity and problem-solving, which is an example of constancy, not a counterexample.

Question 13

The analytical problem-solving model works best when the problem faced is complex and ambiguous.

Accepted Answer

The answer of The analytical problem-solving model works best when...

Question 14

The analytical problem-solving model would be the most appropriate approach in determining why employee morale has declined in an organization.

Accepted Answer

The answer of The analytical problem-solving model would be the...

Question 15

Improving on what already exists and systematically developing alternatives is a creative problem-solving approach that Jeff DeGraff would call "Improvement."

Accepted Answer

The statement accurately describes Jeff DeGraff's definition of the Improvement approach to creative problem-solving. This approach involves enhancing or refining existing solutions, and developing alternative solutions based on deliberate analysis and experimentation.

Question 16

Your team at work has been specifying solutions that are consistent with the goals of the organization and has been building on each other's ideas.Your team is effectively generating alternatives.

Accepted Answer

The statement describes characteristics of an effective team in generating alternatives.

Question 17

According to the authors of the text,one reason why most people have difficulty solving problems creatively is because they think of creativity simply as generating new ideas.

Accepted Answer

The text states that "most people associate creativity with the simple task of generating new ideas" (paragraph 2), leading to a limited understanding of what creativity involves and hindering their ability to solve problems in a creative way.

Question 18

Susan states,"Well,I think this solution will work for now." Susan violated an important guideline for effectively evaluating alternative solutions to problems.

Accepted Answer

Susan's statement suggests a temporary acceptance of a solution without thoroughly evaluating its potential success or drawbacks. This violates the guideline of carefully evaluating all alternatives before making a decision.

Question 19

Involving others in implementing the solution to a problem will increase support of and decrease resistance to the solution.

Accepted Answer

When people feel they have been involved in a decision-making process, they are more likely to support the outcome, rather than feeling like something has just been imposed upon them. This can lead to greater commitment to the solution and decreased resistance to it.

Question 20

If you define a current problem in terms of problems you have faced in the past,you are demonstrating the conceptual block of stereotyping.

Accepted Answer

Stereotyping refers to the tendency to generalize or categorize people, things, or situations based on preconceived beliefs or experiences. If one defines a current problem solely in terms of past problems, they are limiting their perspective and potentially overlooking unique aspects of the current problem. This can be seen as a form of stereotyping because it is based on past experiences and assumptions rather than a fresh analysis of the current situation.

Quiz 3: Solving Problems Analytically and Creatively