{Excerpt} Ideas are not often plucked out of thin air. The SCAMPER brainstorming technique uses a set of directed questions to resolve a problem (or meet an opportunity). It can also turn a tired idea into something new and different. A problem is situation, condition, or issue that remains unresolved and makes it difficult to accomplish a desired objective. A problem is perceived when an individual, group, or organization becomes aware of a significant difference between what is desired and what actually is. Trying to find a solution to a problem is known as problem solving. Problem solving is the process by which a situation is analyzed, a workable solution is determined, and corrective actionis taken. The common milestones of problem solving are to: • Define (or clarify) the problem. • Analyze causes. • Generate ideas (identify alternatives). • Weigh up ideas (assess alternatives). • Make a decision (select an alternative). • Determine next steps to implement the solution. • Evaluate whether the problem was solved or not.