During which phase of the Creative Problem Solving plan does decision making occur?

The Evaluation phase is where decision-making plays a crucial role in the Creative Problem Solving process. During this phase, individuals or teams review and analyze the various ideas generated during the Ideation phase. They weigh the pros and cons of potential solutions, considering their feasibility, impact, and alignment with the objectives. This critical assessment allows for informed choices about which ideas to pursue or refine further.

The key activities in the Evaluation phase include comparing the generated ideas against the criteria established earlier in the process, identifying the strengths and weaknesses of each solution, and ultimately deciding which solution or combination of solutions should be implemented. This structured approach ensures that the final decision is based on careful consideration and rationale, rather than impulsive choices.

In contrast, the other phases focus on different aspects of the process. The Information phase is about gathering relevant data and understanding the problem space. The Ideation phase is focused on generating creative ideas and potential solutions. The Implementation phase involves executing the chosen solution, which requires prior decision-making that occurs in the Evaluation phase.