Author Chris Griffiths promises clear thinking and confidence in your decision-making powers with his latest book, “GRASP The Solution”.
The book contains about 290 pages. It is nicely laid out and the paper quality is top-notch.
Chris introduces Important concepts in simple, digestible terms supported by judiciously selected quotes and ample references to source materials for further study. Mind maps at the end of each chapter give a concise review of the chapter contents.
Chris’s writing style is personable and entertaining. He re-emphasizes important points throughout the book with different examples and turns of phrase. This facilitates skim reading and makes for a more relaxed read.
So, What Is New About GRASP The Solution?
Chris does not claim to have invented new problem solving techniques, but to have provided an efficient and easy-to-follow framework for using them.
The framework includes Generating, Reacting to, Analyzing, and Selecting ideas. The entire process is Proactive. Hence, “G.R.A.S.P.”
Chris explains the psychology behind the framework and why the selected techniques work best when used in the order prescribed- empowering the reader to drop, replace, or add new techniques.
In other words, the system is as organic and evolving as the problems that go in to it and the solutions that come out if it. This is as it should be. After all, you’re learning how to think, not just how to follow a system.
My favorite technique from the book is “Reverse The Challenge” where you brainstorm how to accomplish the opposite of your real goal (e.g., “how can I get more customers” becomes “how can I lose more customers?”), then reverse the solutions.
As a bonus, Chris discusses at length how to adapt brainstorming to group sessions in a way that sidesteps many common pitfalls such as “social loafing” and “evaluation apprehension.” Team leaders will find this section invaluable.
GRASP For Project Management
I like the way Chris closes the loop by bridging the gap between problem solving and solution implementation- also known as project management.
The approach he illustrates serves more as a set of guidelines than a full-fledged project management system; nevertheless, it’s better than what most people do, which is either wing it or over complicate it.
The key takeaway from this part of the book is that you don’t stop creative thinking just because the problem solving phase is complete- you can still use the techniques you learned to manage, refine, and sometimes radically change the solutions you found.
Summary
While you won’t be transformed in to a creative genius overnight after reading the book, it is comforting to know that creative problem solving is a SKILL that can be learned through study and practice.
You will realize GRASP’s full potential when you put it to consistent use like a painter’s favorite brush, a runner’s favorite shoes, or a chess expert’s favorite opening gambit.
If you’ve ever wanted to improve your creative problem solving skills or felt that your group brainstorming sessions could be more productive, GRASP The Solution is the book for you.
