Creative Problem Solving

Real Solutions to Organizational Challenges

Most organizations already have the people and information necessary to solve their problems. Still, problems persist unresolved or glowing opportunities are not capitalized upon. Creative solutions, sometimes requiring little investment of time or money, elude most organizations simply because they do not have proven methods to effectively tap the resources they possess.

An Information Factory

New Line Consulting enables organizations to harness the talent of their people through powerful processes of creative problem solving, planning, and implementation. In place of conventional meetings, we create a "solutions factory." Facilitators and participants bring questions, ideas, and experience to the process. Through unique methods that support both information management and the human creative process, this raw material is then refined into the finished product: a concise action plan that fully endorsed by all participants.

Earning Commitment

A key element in our work is gaining genuine buy-in from everyone involved in solving the problem, from senior management to hourly employees. Involvement from New Line allows diverse individuals to work together effectively without anyone being diminished in the process. As a result, the solutions that are selected have the commitment of key personnel at all levels of the organization.

Scan-Focus-Act

Our methods are built around a simple model of creative problem solving called "Scan-Focus-Act." Some groups are paralyzed by different options and possibilities; they are lost in the "scan" phase. Other groups feel trapped in the current circumstance and see no possibility for improvement; they are slaves to a relentless "focus." Still others jump to conclusions about the nature of the problem and move directly to implement a set of hastily drawn-up actions. They are stuck in the "act" phase. New Line insures that teams work effectively together through each step of Scan-Focus-Act. Groups are therefore able to solve problems and formulate plans of action at a highly accelerated rate.

Whether you are working on increasing profitability, effectively disseminating information, resolving interpersonal issues, or a strategic plan, our processes will help your organization succeed in a fraction of the time required by conventional meetings.

Typical Format:
An initial four-hour Assessment Session followed by additional sessions, as needed, depending on the nature of the problem.

"The New Line team did an exceptional job at deeply understanding the dynamics of our organization and earning the trust of a wide range of individuals. As a result of our work together, we arrived at solutions to a wide range of organizational and communication challenges extremely quickly. Equally as important, these solutions had the genuine commitment of the key parties involved."

-Duke Terrell, Ph.D., Warden U.S. Federal Bureau of Prisons