Oak's four-step creative model

The Four-Step Creative Process by Alex Osborn

The Four-Step Creative Process developed by Alex Osborn is a well-known process used by many to generate creative ideas. It is composed of four steps – preparation, incubation, illumination, and verification. In this essay, the four steps are discussed, and how to maximize the likelihood of developing effective solutions through each step is also explained.

The first step of the process is preparation. In this step, the goal of the innovator is to gather as much information and understanding of the task as possible. This involves doing research, evaluation of the problem, studying the existing resources and understanding the constraints of the innovation. It is often helpful to invite others to join in the creative process at this stage, as they can bring in ideas the innovator might not have considered.

The second step is incubation. In this step, the innovator has looked at the problem and collected information, however the process of transforming that information into innovative solutions is left to incubation. This is a period of idle time or relaxed thinking on the problem. Osborn suggested that during this period, the individual should explore other areas, give their mind something different to think about and let the problem simmer in their subconscious.

The third step is illumination. This is the period in which ideas and solutions begin to emerge from the incubation period. It is during this time that a solution seems to suddenly come to the individual out of the blue through a sudden burst of inspiration. Research has shown that the process of incubation helps to prime the brain and make these moments of inspiration more likely.

The fourth and final step is verification. Here, the innovator blends fact and imagination to develop a feasible solution. They must assess their idea in terms of feasibility, practicality and efficiency. If the idea seems promising, it is advisable to involve others in assessing the idea and ultimately approve or reject it.

Overall, the Four-Step Creative Process is an effective way to generate and develop creative ideas. Through this process, the innovator has a much better chance of effectively tackling the task at hand and coming up with a meaningful and feasible solution. The process can be utilized in many different contexts and serve as a valuable tool in the innovation and creative process.

The Osborne Model of Creativity is a four-step approach designed to help people come up with creative solutions to problems. Developed by American creativity expert and author Bob Osborne, this model is based on the belief that creativity is a skill that can be learned and developed with practice and guidance.

1. Ask a Question: The first step of the Osborne Model is to ask the right questions. By clearly defining the problem, you can get a better idea of what the possible solutions and creative ideas may be.

2. Gather Information: Once the problem has been clearly defined, its time to do some research and gather information. You can do this through brainstorming, reading, talking to experts, and even just observing your surroundings.

3. Look for Ideas: With information at hand, its time to look for ideas. Pay attention to any thoughts, feelings, and sensations, as these can be clues to uncover creative ideas.

4. Evaluate the Ideas: The final step of the Osborne Model is to evaluate the ideas that have been generated. Look closely at each idea and consider the feasibility of it, as well as the potential benefits and drawbacks.

The Osborne Model of Creativity is a simple, yet powerful tool that can help anyone learn to generate creative ideas. It is important to remain open-minded throughout the process, as well as to remember that creativity often happens when you take risks and get out of your comfort zone.