Creativity in OR/MS: The Creative Problem-Solving Process, Part 1

Over the years, Gene Woolsey and others have taught us that mathematics and models are not always necessary to solve important problems in OR/MS. Often the best solutions are novel and unusual—that is, they are creative. The principles of creative thinking can help practitioners and researchers in OR/MS explain, understand, and enhance their work. In this series of columns, I discuss many principles of creative thinking and ways in which you can become more creative and enhance your problem-solving skills. I invite you to submit your examples, comments, and perspectives on creativity.