What is Generative Design Methods

Problems are a type of situations that are mentally and socially framed to direct efforts and resources with the aim to change them into desired future situations. The definition of what constitutes a problem, and particularly one worth solving creatively is often left implicit in research studies and professional practice. This chapter presents “Creative Problem Framing” (CPF) as a strategic part of the creative endeavor. It does so by analyzing a collection of projects that the authors have supervised in recent years in academia, start-ups, and industry in four countries. An analysis of these cases provides an initial set of dimensions of creative problem framing. The chapter ends with guidelines for higher education to promote creative problem framing, and to design studio-based experiences that enable learners to practice CPF in meaningful ways.