BUSINESS STUDIES

GRADE 12

TERM ONE

REVISED CHAPTER 4

NOTES ON CREATIVE THINKING AND PROBLEM SOLVING

2024
Creative thinking 2 NW/Chapter 4

Table of contents
A. EXTRACT FROM THE EXAMINATION GUIDELINE 2021 3
B. TERMS AND DEFINITIONS
1. PROBLEM-SOLVING 4
1.1 Meaning of problem solving 4
1.2 Meaning of decision making 4
1.3 Differences between problem solving and decision making 4
1.4 Problem solving steps 5
1.5 Application/Discussion of problem solving steps 6
1.6 Problem solving techniques 6
1.7 Application of the problem solving techniques 6-8
1.8 Impact of problem solving techniques 8-10

2 CREATIVE THINKING 10
2.1 Meaning of creative thinking 10
2.2 Advantages/Benefits of creative thinking in the workplace 10-11
2.3 Ways in which a business can create an environment that
stimulates/promote creative thinking 12
Creative thinking 3 NW/Chapter 4

A. EXTRACT FROM THE EXAMINATION GUIDELINE 2021 PAGE 28-29

CONTENT DETAILS FOR TEACHING, LEARNING AND ASSESSMENT PURPOSES
PROBLEM-SOLVING
Learners must be able to:
 Define/Elaborate on the meaning of problem-solving and decision making.
 Explain/Differentiate/Distinguish between problem-solving and decision
making.
 Identify/Name/Outline/Explain/Discuss the problem solving steps.
 Apply the problem-solving steps from given scenarios/case studies.
 Identify/Name the following problem solving techniques from given scenarios/statements
o Delphi technique
o Force field analysis
o Brainstorming
o Nominal group technique
 Explain/Advise businesses on how they can apply the above-mentioned problem-solving
techniques to solve complex business problems.
 Discuss/Evaluate/Analyse the impact (positives/advantage and/or negatives disadvantages) of the
above-mentioned problem-solving techniques
CREATIVE THINKING
 Define/Elaborate on the meaning of creative thinking.
 Explain the benefits/advantages of creative thinking in the workplace.
 Explain/Recommend ways businesses can create an environment that promotes creative
thinking.

B. TERMS AND DEFINITIONS

Term Definition
Creative To be original, inventive or resourceful.
Generate To produce or create.
Creativity/ Innovative Ideas featuring new and original methods.
Creative thinking The ability to think of original, varied new ideas or new approaches
Decision-making Process of analysing a situation to identify strategies to bring about
change.
Problem Experiencing uncertainty or difficulty in achieving what we want to
achieve.
Problem-solving Gathering facts that include problem findings and problem shaping.
Problem-solving techniques Various problem solving techniques which businesses used to solve
business related problems.
Creative thinking 4 NW/Chapter 4

Week 8:
6-12 March
1 PROBLEM SOLVING

1.1 Meaning of problem solving

 It is the process of analysing a situation to identify strategies that can be used to change
the situation. Problem solving requires creative thinking.
 Problem solving is a mental process that involves problem finding, which is the ability to
identify the problem.
 It also involves problem shaping, which is the ability to break-down the problem in such a
way that a clear solution can be found.

1.2 Meaning of decision making

 Decision making is a choice made by using one's judgement.
 It is also aimed at finding a solution to a problem by choosing a best solution or course of
action.

1.3 Differences between problem solving and decision making

RECOMMENDATIONS OF DIAGNOSTIC REPORT 2021
An in-depth analysis of the differences between problem-solving and decision making is
essential, especially with regards to the word alternative. Learners must know that
decision-making considers only alternative solutions without a critical evaluation of each
solution as compared to problem-solving.

RECOMMENDATIONS OF DIAGNOSTIC REPORT 2022

An in-depth analysis of the differences between problem-solving and decision-making
is essential especially on the word alternative. Learners must know that decision-making
only considers alternative solutions without a critical evaluation of each solution compared
to problem-solving. Learners must be able to write complete sentences on each concept to
avoid forfeiting marks for vague and incomplete responses.

Difference between problem solving and decision making

PROBLEM SOLVING DECISION MAKING
 Problems can be solved by a group/  It is often done by one person/a
team which makes the process member of senior management who
consultative makes the process authoritarian.
 Alternative solutions are generated/  Various alternatives are considered
identified and critically evaluated. before deciding on the best one.
 Process of analysing a situation to  It is part of the problem-solving cycle as
identify strategies to bring about decisions need to be taken in each
change. step.
Creative thinking 5 NW/Chapter 4

Recommendations on the problem-solving Diagnostic report 2023

The following facts will no longer be accepted as they are inappropriately placed under the
problem-solving steps as they form part of the strategic management process covered in
Paper 1.
o Formulate a strategy
o Monitor the implementation of the strategy
o Evaluate a strategy

Teachers are advised to remove the above-mentioned facts from the DBE textbook and any
other credible source where applicable

1.4 Problem solving steps

 Identify the problem.
 Define the problem.
 Identify possible solutions to the problem.
 Select the most appropriate alternative.
 Develop an action plan/Formulate a strategy.
 Implement the suggested solution/action plan.
 Monitor the implementation of the solution/action plan/strategy.
 Evaluate the implemented solution.

1.5 Application/Discussion of problem solving steps

Identify the problem
 Acknowledge that there is a problem
 Identify the exact problem
 Break down the problem into smaller parts that are easier solve separately
Define the problem
 Name the problem by stating exactly what the problem is.
 Find different ways of defining the problem.
 Define the possible causes of the problem
 The nature of the problem must be precise.
 Gather as much information as possible to establish the cause of the problem.
Identify alternative solutions
 Identify all different possible solutions
 Use creative thinking strategies to generate a wide range of solutions
 Focus on generating as many ways as possible through using creative thinking.
 Collect as many ideas as possible and find the best idea/decide on one strategy to follow.
Evaluate alternative solutions
 Use critical evaluation and analytical skills to evaluate each solution.
 Consider the advantages and disadvantages of each alternative solution.
Creative thinking 6 NW/Chapter 4

Choose the best solution

 Set criteria for the best solution, in terms of aspects such as time/cost/risk involved
 Identify which solution will be used
 The best solution should match the size and the resources of the business.
 If the solution is not appropriate, the business should go back to defining the problem.
Formulate/Develop an action plan/strategy
 Arrange the necessary resources and delegate tasks.
 Establish a time line for implementation and set deadlines
Implement the action plan
 Carry out the planned actions/solution.
 Communicate delegated tasks/deadlines to employees.
Evaluate the solution/action plan
 Assess whether the problem has been solved partially or entirely
 Monitor/test the solution/action plan/strategy continuously.
 If problems emerge, they must recognise and re-formulate the problem for improved
solutions in the future.

1.6 Problem solving techniques

 Delphi technique
 Force field analysis
 Brainstorming
 Nominal group technique
NOTE: You only need to focus on the above mentioned problem solving techniques

Application of the problem solving techniques

Application of the Delphi technique

Recommendations on the Delphi-technique: Diagnostic report 2022

Role plays and demonstrations could be done when teaching the application of the Delphi and
force-field analysis techniques. Learners must know that businesses distribute questionnaires
three times to experts before preparing a final feedback report. They should also know that
the force-field analysis deals with change in the workplace and that businesses can only
develop an action plan after a decision has been made on the viability of a project

 Businesses must invite a panel of experts to research the complaints from customers.
 Experts do not have to be in one place and will be contacted individually.
 Design a questionnaire consisting of questions on how to improve the quality of their
products and distribute it to the panel members/experts.
 Request the panel to individually respond to the questionnaire/suggest improvements to the
products and return it to the business
 Summarise the responses from the experts in a feedback report.
 Send the feedback report and a second set of questions/questionnaire based on the
feedback report to the panel members.
 Request panel members to provide further input/ideas on how to improve the quality of
Creative thinking 7 NW/Chapter 4

products after they have studied the results/documentation.

 Distribute a third questionnaire based on previous feedback from the second round.
 Prepare a final summary/feedback report with all the methods to improve the quality of the
business’s products
 The business should choose the best solution/proposal after reaching consensus.

Application of Force-Field Analysis

 Describe the current situation/problem and the desired situation.
 List all driving/pros and restraining/cons forces that will support and resist change.
 Allocate a score to each force using a numerical scale, where 1 is weak and 5 is strong
 Weigh up the positives and negatives then decide if the project is viable.
 Choose the force with the highest score as the solution.
 If the project is viable, find ways to increase the forces for change.
 Identify priorities and develop an action plan.

Application of brainstorming
 State/Define the business problem clearly, so that all participants/stake-holder understand
the problem.
 Members state possible causes of the business problems.
 Set a time limit for each brainstorming session.
 Record/Write ideas down, where all participants can see it./Ideas may also be shared online
during an E-brainstorming session.
 Use each suggestion, to inspire new thoughts/ideas.
 Do not judge/criticise/discuss the ideas, so that many ideas could be generated as quickly as
possible.
 All members of the group randomly make suggestions.
 The group rates ideas according to its usefulness/success/difficulty/cost to implement.
 The group evaluates all ideas, and combines similar ones/draw up a refined list.
 Discuss a plan of action on how to implement the best ideas.

Application of nominal-group technique

RECOMMENDATIONS ON THE NOMINAL GROUP-TECHNIQUE: DIAGNOSTIC REPORT
2023

Learners should know the application of the nominal-group technique in terms of the role an
individual plays in saliently generating new ideas and sharing them with the group. They must
also know that this technique is limited to small groups so that each member can generate
many ideas to solve a business problem. Subject advisors must ensure that this content is
adequately taught and assessed in Grade 11 as it progresses to Grade 12.

 Encourage group to clearly define the problem/to improve the quality of their products due to
various complaints so that all the small groups can work on the same problem.
 The business must divide the employees into smaller groups.
 Request each employee to silently brainstorm /generate many ideas on his/her own, on how
the quality of the product can be improved and to write it down.
 Each employee in the small group has the opportunity to give one of his/her idea/solution
with a short explanation.
Creative thinking 8 NW/Chapter 4

 Appoint one employee to write the ideas/solutions on a large sheet of paper/ capture
solutions electronically on computer for all to see.
 Allow each employee to give a second solution until all possible solutions have been
recorded.
 Encourage employees to ask clarity seeking questions.
 Discourage criticism of ideas/solutions as this may prevent others from giving their solutions.
 The business must eliminate ideas that are duplicated/ similar.
 Each employee must read through all the suggestions and anonymously rate them giving the
highest points for the best solution.
 Collect the ratings and calculate total points.
 Small groups must present one solution to the large group that was deemed best according
to the scores/votes in their small groups.

1.8 Impact of problem solving techniques

Impact of the Delphi technique
Positives/Advantages

 Businesses may use a group of experts without bringing them together.

 The experts will give the business clear ideas/solutions on how to improve on
productivity/profitability.
 Information received from experts can be used to solve complex business problems.
 Experts may give honest/credible opinions as they do not have a direct/personal interest in
the business.
 Conflict may be avoided especially if all employees are knowledgeable and well qualified.
 Dominating employees may not take over the process as they do not form part of the
problem solving process.
 It reduces noise levels in an office environment since there is no group discussion
AND/OR
Negatives/Disadvantages

 It is an expensive technique to use due to high administrative costs.

 Not all experts are willing/interested to give feedback/complete questionnaires.
 Some experts might not have an in-depth knowledge of certain topics.
 Experts' suggestions may not be considered by some employees so consensus may not be
reached.
 May be time consuming/complicated to analyse data received from experts.

Impact of the Force-Field Analysis

Positives/Advantages
 Employees feel included and understood.
 Employees develop and grow with the business.
 It provides a visual summary of all the various factors supporting and opposing a particular
idea
 Informed decisions can be made as forces for and against are critically evaluated.
 Enables businesses to strengthen the driving forces and weaken the restraining forces.
 Businesses are able to have an idea of the timeline required and the requirements of
Creative thinking 9 NW/Chapter 4

additional resources
AND/OR
Negatives/Disadvantages

 Requires the participation of all business units.

 It is time consuming since the business must stabilise before more changes can be made.
 The analysis developed is entirely dependent upon the skill level and knowledge of the
group working on the analysis.

The impact of brainstorming

Positives/Advantages

 People get ideas from others and build on them.

 Stimulates creative thinking in the workplace.
 Better solutions are developed through collective contributions.
 Combinations of ideas/improvements can be chosen after all the ideas have been written
down.
 Employees are motivated as they are allowed to contribute to problem solving.
AND/OR

Negatives/Disadvantages

 Some team members may dominate discussion.

 Discussion may result in conflict due to differences in opinion.
 Fear of criticism may prevent full participation in brainstorming sessions.
 It may lead to 'group think'/some individuals may not give their opinions.
 Brainstorming is time consuming as all stakeholders/employees may generate too many
ideas which can delay decision making.

The impact of the Nominal group technique

Positives/Advantages

 It provides time to think about the question in silence before responding.

 Voting on the ideas is anonymous and may be more reliable/honest.
 Strong technique for preventing conformity to group pressure.
 Each team member has a chance to participate without interference from other team
members.
 Everyone in the group is given an opportunity to contribute to the discussion, while avoiding
the likelihood of one person dominating the group process.
 Enables the group to generate and clarifies a large amount of ideas quickly, and
democratically prioritises them.
 It encourages participants to confront issues through constructive problem solving
 Strong technique for preventing conformity to group pressure
AND/OR
Creative thinking 10 NW/Chapter 4

Negatives/Disadvantages

 Small groups limit participation and are pre-selected.

 It is time consuming, as each member must make a presentation.
 Suggestions may not be as creative as when a group throws ideas around.
 Good ideas can be voted out because its potential cannot be developed further.
 It minimises discussion, and thus does not allow the full development of ideas.
 Ideas/Inputs made by members may not converge and cannot lead to the same solution (s).
 It is hard to implement it effectively with large groups unless very carefully planned
beforehand.
 Requires extended advance preparation, which means that it cannot be a spontaneous
technique.

2 CREATIVE THINKING

2.1 Meaning of creative thinking

 Creative thinking is the ability to think of original and innovative ideas.
 It focuses on exploring ideas/generating possibilities and looking for many answers.

2.2 Advantages/Benefits of creative thinking in the workplace

RECOMMENDATIONS ON THE BENEFITS OF CREATIVE-THINKING IN THE BUSINESS:

DIAGNOSTIC REPORT 2021

Teachers should focus on how new ideas benefit businesses, when explaining the
advantages of creative thinking in the workplace. Teachers could use key words such as
solutions, competitive, motivation and confidence to formulate statements on the advantages
of creative thinking in the workplace. Learners must be advised to use these key words to
remember facts on this content.

RECOMMENDATIONS ON THE BENEFITS OF CREATIVE-THINKING IN THE BUSINESS:

DIAGNOSTIC REPORT 2022

Teachers should focus on how new ideas benefit businesses when explaining the advantages
of creative thinking in the workplace. Learners must know that creative thinking also benefits
employees as they are also given the opportunity to contribute towards problem-solving.
Subject advisors must ensure that this content is adequately taught and assessed in Grades
10 and 11 as it progresses to Grade 12.
Creative thinking 11 NW/Chapter 4

RECOMMENDATIONS ON THE BENEFITS OF CREATIVE-THINKING IN THE BUSINESS:

DIAGNOSTIC REPORT 2023

The advantages of creative thinking should not be confused with the benefits of diversity in
the workplace. The latter focuses on the advantages of implementing innovative ideas for
businesses while the former focuses on benefits of implementing positive ideas from diverse
employees. Teachers should focus on how new ideas benefit businesses and employees
when explaining the advantages of creative thinking in the workplace. The following fact has
been elaborated in the DBE textbook as follows:
- Managers/Employees may keep up with fast changing technology which may lead to an
increased market share.
It should be noted that only the newly elaborated version will be allocated two (2)
marks in future marking processes.

 Better/Unique/Unconventional ideas/solutions are generated.

 Complex business problems may be solved.
 Improves motivation amongst staff members.
 Management/employees may keep up with fast changing technology which may lead to an
increased market share.
 Creativity may lead to new inventions which improves the general standard of living/attract
new investors.
 May give the business a competitive advantage if unusual/unique solutions/ ideas/strategies
are implemented.
 Productivity increases as management/employees may quickly generate multiple ideas
which utilises time and money more effectively.
 Managers/Employees have more confidence as they can live up to their full potential.
 Managers will be better leaders as they will be able to handle/manage change(s) positively
and creatively.
 Managers/Employees can develop a completely new outlook, which may be applied to any
task(s) they may do.
 Leads to more positive attitudes as managers/employees feel that they have contributed
towards problem solving.
 Managers/Employees have a feeling of great accomplishment and they will not
resist/obstruct the process once they solved a problem/contributed towards the success of
the business.
 Stimulates initiative from employees/managers, as they are continuously pushed out of their
comfort zone.
 Businesses can continuously improve on product development by exploring new ways to
enhance growth
Creative thinking 12 NW/Chapter 4

2.3 Ways in which a business can create an environment that stimulates/promote

creative thinking
 Encourage alternative ways of working/doing things.
 Reward creativity with reward schemes for teams/individuals that come up with creative
ideas.
 Provide a working environment conducive to creativity, free from distractions
 Respond enthusiastically to all ideas and never let anyone feel less important.
 Place suggestion boxes around the workplace and keep communication channels open for
new ideas
 Emphasise the importance of creative thinking to ensure that all staff know that
management want to hear their ideas.
 Make time for brainstorming sessions to generate new ideas, e.g. regular workshops/
generate more ideas/build on one another's ideas.
 Train staff in innovative techniques/creative problem solving skills/mind-mapping/ lateral
thinking.
 Encourage job swops within the organisation/studying how other businesses are doing
things.