ThoughtPath: Well-suited to first-time users of idea-generation software

By Chuck Frey

ThoughtPath (formerly MindLink Problem Solver) may very well be the best creative problem solving program for first-time users of idea-generation software. Its strong process orientation and simple, uncluttered interface belies its awesome power. This unique program allows novice and experienced users alike to stimulate, record, manipulate and evaluate a large volume of ideas.

The methodology behind ThoughtPath is based on over 30 years of research in the process of creativity by Synectics, Inc., an international management consulting firm specializing in innovation.

ThoughtPath is divided into six modules: The Gym, Idea Generation, Guided Problem Solving, Problem Solving, Evaluate and Refine Concept, and Thought Warehouse. These tools offer a wide range of options. For example, a novice user could do a mental warm-up in the The Gym, and then select Guided Problem Solving for a hands-on tutorial on the problem-solving process.

Similarly, experienced users can access the same process in the Problem Solving module - without the on-line "cue cards" - or can begin brainstorming ideas immediately in the Idea Generation section.

In each module, users first record their initial ideas, then stimulate additinal thoughts, wishes and solutions using a variety of Idea Triggers. Unlike other creative problem-solving programs, ThoughtPath selects these exercises at random, stimulating a wide variety of potential ideas and solutions. You can also override this default setting and select the triggers you want to use, if desired.

Most of ThoughtPath's triggers follow a powerful two-step process. First, they ask you to brainstorm ideas about something totally unrelated to your problem, then look for creative ways to link or adapt these ideas to your current situation or problem. This "sleight of head" approach tends to stimulate a steady flow of fresh, divergent solutions - and makes ThoughtPath fun and engaging to use.

Another unique feature is the Evaluate and Refine Concept module, which can help you to manipulate and evaluate a large number of ideas quickly and easily. According to ThoughtPath Software, this feature helps you to develop refined, real-world solutions, not just massive lists of raw ideas.

Also notable is a new Thought Warehouse module, which allows users to quickly locate great ideas from past sessions. ThoughtPath is the first creativity software to offer a relational database for organizing, retrieving and managing the knowledge base that it creates. Thought Warehouse give users easy and direct access to an accumulated bank of ideas, solutions and thoughts with simple keyword assignments and text searches.

ThoughtPath is a real joy to use, and you'll really enjoy the ROI - "Return on Ideas" - it provides!

Published on 9/7/2001

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Summary ThoughtPath provides a great set of tools for users to generate lots of ideas, and then evaluate them via a number of criteria.
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