TOOLS FOR CREATIVE PROBLEM SOLVING

1.6. Technique: Disney creativity method

The Disney creativity method, also known as Disney’s creative strategy, is a problem-solving and brainstorming technique designed to enhance creativity and innovative thinking. Developed by Walt Disney and later formalized by creativity expert Robert Dilts, this method helps individuals and teams explore ideas from three distinct perspectives—the Dreamer, the Realist, and the Critic. By separating these modes of thinking, the technique encourages innovative solutions while ensuring they are both practical and feasible.

The three roles of the Disney creativity method

How the Disney creativity method works

The Disney method involves cycling through each of the three roles—Dreamer, Realist, and Critic—either individually or as a team. These roles should be taken on one at a time to ensure that the focus remains on generating ideas, refining them, and then evaluating them, rather than mixing these modes of thinking all at once. This separation of thinking styles prevents premature criticism of ideas and promotes more balanced decision-making.

Benefits of the Disney creativity method

This method can be applied in various contexts, such as product development by innovating new products or services; business strategy by developing strategic plans or marketing campaigns; team collaboration by facilitating brainstorming sessions with diverse teams or personal projects by using it for personal goals or creative endeavors like writing, designing, or solving complex problems.

The Disney creativity method is a powerful tool that facilitates both creative thinking and critical analysis, allowing individuals and teams to generate imaginative ideas while ensuring they are grounded in reality. By shifting between the roles of Dreamer, Realist, and Critic, it helps balance the excitement of innovation with the practicalities and challenges of execution, leading to well-rounded solutions.

Do some practice. Plan a weekend getaway

Do some practice. Practical task. Disney creativity method

Objective of the task: to use the Disney creativity method to explore different vacation ideas, refine the most realistic options, and critically assess the potential challenges.