De Bono Can Problem 2 & 3

Today in Entrepreneurial Strategies class, we did the second and third can problem. The purpose of this exercise was to test our creative problem solving skills and to observe how we work together in groups. The first time we did the De Bono problem, we were asked to use 3 cans. The second problem required 4 cans and the 3^rd problem required only 2 cans. It was interesting to see how the group has evolved since the first De Bono exercise. This time, we took a different approach to solving the problem. We all sat down and thought about the problem for a minute. Then when one person had an idea, they shared it with the rest of the group and explained their thought process so that everyone felt included. As a group, we figured out the solution to the 2nd can exercise very quickly. We came up with many possible solutions to the 3^rd problem but unfortunately, none of them were right. When David eventually showed us the answer, which required inverting the knives from the 2^nd can problem, it seemed so simple and intuitive. The take home message for the day was to tap into the power of the creative mind and learn to look at problems from several different angles.  This ability will come in very handy in the next few days as the group continues to brainstorm and search for a “green” product. So what does all this talk about problem solving and creativity have to do with being an entrepreneur? Well, in the words of my professor, “find a problem, find people who have that problem, find people who will pay for that problem and then you have a business.” On another note, tomorrow is a very important day for our group. We will be meeting with our board of directors for the first time. I’m excited but a bit nervous as well. I will keep you posted on how that works out.