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Convergent Thinking Techniques - Coggle Diagram
Convergent Thinking Techniques
SWOT Analysis
Definition: A strategic planning tool that evaluates Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats.
Purpose: Helps identify the best options by examining internal and external factors.
Process:
Identify strengths and weaknesses within the organization.
Analyze external opportunities and threats in the market.
Outcome: Provides a comprehensive view for informed decision-making.
Decision Matrices
Definition: A systematic method for comparing multiple options based on predetermined criteria.
Purpose: Facilitates objective evaluation of choices to prioritize solutions.
Outcome: Enables clear visualization of which option meets the most criteria effectively.
Process:
Create a grid with options on one axis and criteria on the other.
Score each option against the criteria to determine the best fit.
Brainstorming Followed by Prioritization
Definition: Combines idea generation (brainstorming) with a systematic evaluation of those ideas.
Purpose: Encourages creativity while ensuring that the best ideas are selected for further development.
Process:
Generate a wide array of ideas without judgment.
Use prioritization techniques (like voting or scoring) to evaluate ideas based on feasibility and impact.
Outcome: Results in a focused list of actionable ideas.
Pros and Cons Lists
Definition: A simple yet effective method for weighing the advantages and disadvantages of each option.
Purpose: Clarifies potential impacts of decisions, aiding in selection.
Outcome: Provides a clear visual representation of each option's merits and drawbacks.
Process:
List pros and cons for each option being considered.
Evaluate which side outweighs the other to guide decision-making.
How Now Wow Matrix
Definition: A visual tool that categorizes ideas based on innovation and feasibility.
Purpose: Helps identify which ideas can be implemented immediately versus those that are more innovative but challenging to execute.
Process:
Create a matrix with axes representing innovation (horizontal) and execution difficulty (vertical).
Place ideas in one of four quadrants: Now, Wow, How, or Discard based on their scores on both axes.
Outcome: Facilitates selection of ideas that balance immediate implementation with innovative potential.
Grouping
Definition: Organizing similar ideas or hypotheses generated from divergent thinking.
Purpose: Helps manage and simplify a large number of ideas by categorizing them.
Application: Use mind mapping or concept mapping to visually group related concepts, making it easier to analyze and evaluate them.
Fishbone Diagram (Ishikawa Diagram)
Definition: A visual tool for identifying the root causes of a problem.
Purpose: Helps focus on underlying issues rather than symptoms.
Application: Create a diagram that branches out from the main problem to various potential causes, allowing for targeted solutions.
Filtering
Definition: The process of eliminating less viable ideas to focus on the most promising ones.
Purpose: Reduces cognitive overload by narrowing down options.
Application: Set criteria for filtering ideas based on feasibility, impact, or alignment with goals, allowing for a more focused decision-making process.
8.Criteria Ranking
Definition: Evaluating and comparing multiple ideas against a set of predetermined criteria.
Purpose: Provides a structured way to assess options objectively.
Application: Assign scores to each option based on how well they meet the established criteria, facilitating a clear comparison.
Nominal Group Technique
Definition: A structured method for group brainstorming that ensures equal participation.
Purpose: Combines individual idea generation with group discussion to prioritize solutions.
Application: Participants first generate ideas silently, then share them in a round-robin format, followed by discussion and ranking of the ideas.
References
Wheaton, K. J. (n.d.). Three convergent thinking techniques every analyst should master.
https://sourcesandmethods.blogspot.com/2014/09/three-convergent-thinking-techniques.html
Philmckinney. (2024, May 23). Mastering convergent thinking skills. Killer Innovations With Phil McKinney.
https://killerinnovations.com/mastering-convergent-thinking-skills/
Charron, P., & Charron, P. (2023, March 9). Divergent vs. Convergent Thinking in Creative Environments. Think Company.
https://www.thinkcompany.com/blog/divergent-thinking-vs-convergent-thinking/
The power of convergent Thinking | Bricks. (n.d.).
https://www.thebricks.com/resources/the-power-of-convergent-thinking
Burton, E. (2023, November 21). The Best Mind-Mapping Techniques for Brainstorming New Ideas. Design Dash.
https://designdash.com/2023/11/21/the-best-mind-mapping-techniques-for-brainstorming-new-ideas/
Asana, T. (2024, January 3). El pensamiento convergente vs. el divergente: cómo hallar el equilibrio [2024] • Asana. Asana.
https://asana.com/es/resources/convergent-vs-divergent
Karkhana. (2024, April 11). Choosing ideas with Convergent Thinking. - Karkhana asia. Karkhana Asia.
https://karkhana.asia/choosing-ideas-with-convergent-thinking/