Editing Synectics (section)

==Theory==
Synectics is a way to approach [[creativity]] and [[Problem solving|problem-solving]] in a rational way. "Traditionally, the creative process has been considered after the fact... The Synectics study has attempted to research creative process in vivo, while it is going on."<ref>Gordon, 3</ref>

According to Gordon, Synectics research has three main assumptions:
*The [[Creativity|creative process]] can be described and taught;
*Invention processes in arts and sciences are analogous and are driven by the same "psychic" processes;
*Individual and group creativity are analogous.<ref>Gordon, 5.</ref>
With these assumptions in mind, Synectics believes that people can be better at being creative if they understand how creativity works.

One important element in creativity is embracing the seemingly [[Relevance|irrelevant]]. Emotion is emphasized over intellect and the [[Irrationality|irrational]] over the [[Rationality|rational]]. Through understanding the emotional and irrational elements of a problem or idea, a group can be more successful at solving a problem.<ref>Gordon, 6.</ref>

Prince emphasized the importance of creative [[Behavior|behaviour]] in reducing inhibitions and releasing the inherent creativity of everyone. He and his colleagues developed specific practices and meeting structures which help people to ensure that their constructive intentions are experienced positively by one another. The use of the creative behaviour tools extends the application of Synectics to many situations beyond invention sessions (particularly constructive resolution of conflict).

Gordon emphasized the importance of {{"'}}metaphorical process' to make the familiar strange and the strange familiar". He expressed his central principle as: "Trust things that are alien, and alienate things that are trusted." This encourages, on the one hand, fundamental problem-analysis and, on the other hand, the [[Social alienation|alienation]] of the original problem through the creation of [[analogy|analogies]]. It is thus possible for new and surprising solutions to emerge.

As an invention tool, Synectics invented a technique called "springboarding" for getting creative beginning ideas. For the development of beginning ideas, the method incorporates brainstorming and deepens and widens it with [[metaphor]]; it also adds an important evaluation process for Idea Development, which takes embryonic new ideas that are attractive but not yet feasible and builds them into new courses of action which have the commitment of the people who will implement them.

Synectics is more demanding of the subject than [[brainstorming]], as the steps involved imply that the process is more complicated and requires more time and effort. The success of the Synectics [[methodology]] depends highly on the skill of a trained [[facilitator]].<ref>Michael J. Dick, ''High Tech Creativity'', [[IEEE]] Engineers' Guide to Business, pp. 117-8, 1992</ref>