The creative process.
Creativity has four stages: preparation, incubation, insight, and verification. Even people who think they are not naturally creative can learn this process (Figure 8-2).
1. Preparation. A carefully designed planning program is essential. First, acquire informa- tion necessary to understand the situation. Individuals can do this on their own, or groups can work together.
The process follows this sequence:
• Pick a specific task • Gather relevant facts • Challenge every detail • Develop preferred solutions • Implement improvements
2. Incubation. After all the information available has been gathered, allow as much time as possible to elapse before deciding on solutions.
3. Insight. Often solutions emerge after a period of reflection that would not have occurred to anyone without this time lapse.