Identifying Tentative Alternative Solutions [3] Once the man- ager has recognized, defined, and analyzed the problem; established its cause(s) and parameters; prepared a problem statement [1]; and made assumptions [2], tentative alternative solutions are developed [3]. In Figure 2–3 this step includes identifying tentative alternative solutions [3a]; collecting data/information [3b], if necessary; and evaluating the merits of each tentative alternative [3c] for an initial accept/reject decision. The initial accept/reject decision uses general criteria such as whether the tentative solution is unethical or illegal; is inconsistent with organizational values, mission, vision or culture; has unacceptable financial or political costs; or is infeasible. If no tentative alter natives meet these general criteria, the step must be repeated. Unique, nontraditional, and creative tentative solutions are identified more readily if structural, personal, and problem centered assumptions are not overly restrictive. Identifying tentative solutions is very important because it consumes more resources than any other problem solving activity and because, if creativity is to occur, it must occur here (Nutt, 1993). It is in the tentative alternative solution loop that creativity is important (Couger, 1995). Although the terms are often used synonymously, creativity defined as imagination and ingenuity should be distinguished from the narrower concept of innovation defined as changing or transforming (Couger, 1995).
Several categories or tactics that can be used to identify ideas for solutions have been described (Nutt, 1993). Regrettably, most do not suggest creativity as a source. Readymade tactics assume that organizations have a store of fully developed solutions a situation in which solutions wait for problems. Search tactics identify solutions from available ideas. Proposals are elicited and compared to identify solutions that seem viable. A design tactic seeks a custom made solution an opportunity for creativity.
Several factors influence the time and resources that are devoted to the tentative alternative solution loop. Most important are the quality and precision of the initial problem definition and the restrictiveness of assumptions. Others in clude sophistication of the organization’s information systems, availability of data, and the degree to which the problem is structured. Unstructured problems are more