1. Elevators: A design problem View as slide show Problem-statements in the context of problem solving Adapted from AdPrin.com

2. Elevators People in a 30-story apartment building are complaining about the long wait for elevators. There are two elevators and there is no room to add a third elevator in the building. Write at least five solutions on a page. When done, go to the next page for our analysis. Adapted from AdPrin.com2

3. What problem are you solving? The way you state the problem implies a solution – and restricts creativity. Brainwrite* problem statements. That is, state the above problem in at least three different ways. Did any of your problem statements lead you to a new solution? * In brainwriting, if working in a group, people individually and anonymously write ideas to be put in a master list. If working alone, write as many ideas as possible in 6 to 10 minutes. Adapted from AdPrin.com3

4. Solving the elevator problem Most people look at this as a problem on how to improve the elevators. This is due to the way the problem was stated. When asked to restate the problem, some people will conclude that the problem is “how can we reduce complaints?” This leads to solutions to make the wait more pleasant, such as by providing mirrors, art work, music, a TV, or messages showing arrival times. Other people might ask about substitutes. Thus, they might provide information about substitutes or make the substitutes more inviting.substitutes more inviting Adapted from AdPrin.com4

5. Based on this exercise, write a small application step for yourself, and set a deadline, preferably within one week. If you are working with someone else, share your application plan and the results of your application. For example, when setting personal goals brainwrite different ways of stating the problem you are trying to solve. Then the goals may become more doable. Adapted from AdPrin.com