Creative problem solving doesn’t always require an expensive new tool, complicated strategy or breakthrough technology. Sometimes, it means finding a simple way to test an idea before committing valuable resources.
I was reminded of this during a recent visit to the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam.
Among the items on display was a box of wool that belonged to Vincent van Gogh. Van Gogh was working hard to develop his painting technique and his use of color. He wanted to experiment but paint was expensive and he didn’t have much money.
So he found another way to experiment. Instead of using valuable paint every time he wanted to explore a color combination, he could use pieces of colored wool to see how different colors worked together.
It was a simple planning tool. And that’s what caught my attention.
What’s the equivalent in your business?
Maybe it’s a prototype you test before launching a product. Maybe it’s a small pilot program before rolling something out to an entire organization. Maybe it’s a sample presentation, mock-up, checklist or customer test that allows you to find problems before they become expensive problems.
The point isn’t to copy Van Gogh’s method. The point is to ask yourself:
What valuable resource am I using to experiment when I could find a simpler way to test the idea first?
Creative problem solving isn’t always about having more resources.
Sometimes it’s about finding a smarter way to use the resources you already have.
So, what’s your box of wool?
