Entrep

THE BIG IDEA : THE WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY

Sources Of Idea

* Our daily lives

* Interest and hobbies

* Daily experiences

* Books, magazines, newspapers, radio and television

* Work experience

* Education

* Through Customers, Competitors, Suppliers and other People

* External Environment

* Technological Trends

* Social Trends

* Ecological Trends

Steps in the Creative Process

1.Preparation – This is the first stage at which the base for creativity and innovation is defined; the mind is prepared for subsequent use in creative thinking. During preparation the individual is encouraged to appreciate the fact that every opportunity provides situations that can educate and experiences from which to learn.

The creativity aspect is kindled through a quest to become more knowledgeable. This can be done through reading about various topics and/or subjects and engaging in discussions with others. Taking part in brainstorming sessions in various forums like professional and trade association seminars, and taking time to study other countries and cultures to identify viable opportunities is also part of preparation. Of importance is the need to cultivate a personal ability to listen and learn from others.

2. Investigation – This stage of enhancing entrepreneurial creativity and innovation involves the business owner taking time to study the problem at hand and what its various components are.

3. Transformation – The information thus accumulated and acquired should then be subjected to convergent and divergent thinking which will serve to highlight the inherent similarities and differences. Convergent thinking will help identify aspects that are similar and connected while divergent thinking will highlight the differences. This twin manner of thinking is of particular importance in realizing creativity and innovation for the following reasons:

- One will be able to skim the details and see what the bigger picture is

- The...