ASSIGNMENT

GROUP PORTFOLIO II

BUS10015-Creative Mindset and Entrepreneurship

Phạm Thị Kim Ngân - 104180414

Nguyễn Huy Cường - 105557792

Đỗ Duy Long - 104815114

innovative solutions through cognitive processes like fluency, flexibility, originality, and

elaboration (Wechsler et al., 2018). These dimensions, first introduced by Guilford

(1960) and expanded by Torrance (1966), form the foundation of divergent thinking,

which drives idea generation and problem-solving.

Fluency refers to producing many ideas, flexibility involves shifting approaches,

originality highlights uniqueness, and elaboration adds detail and depth to ideas. In the

Design Thinking process, creative thinking is particularly crucial during the ideation

phase, where brainstorming encourages open-ended exploration without immediate

judgment (Isaksen, Dorval, & Treffinger, 2011). This approach aligns with the Osborn-

Parnes Creative Problem-Solving Model, emphasizing idea generation as a key step in

addressing challenges (Parnes, 1967).

Wechsler et al. (2018) emphasize that creativity extends beyond novelty, requiring

relevance and usefulness within specific contexts. This aligns with Runco and Garrett's

(2012) assertion that creativity combines originality and appropriateness, making it

impactful in real-world applications. Moreover, intrinsic motivation plays a significant

role, as individuals are more likely to engage creatively when tasks are personally

meaningful (Amabile, 1996).

In addition to idea generation, creative thinking enhances problem-solving and

innovation by fostering connections between seemingly unrelated concepts. Lubart

(2001) highlights how cognitive flexibility allows for adaptive, user-centered solutions -

essential in design contexts (Brown, 2009).

cognitive constructs. Creative thinking drives divergent exploration, while critical

thinking involves convergent evaluation, ensuring ideas are both innovative and practical

(Halpern, 2014).

In educational and professional settings, fostering creative thinking equips

individuals to navigate uncertainty and adapt to evolving challenges. Recognized as a

21st-century competency by the OECD (2009) and UNESCO (2016), creativity is

essential for success in modern workplaces. Educators can promote creativity by

encouraging risk-taking, experimentation, and open-ended exploration (Beghetto, Dow,

& Plucker, 2004). In conclusion, creative thinking empowers individuals to approach

problems with curiosity, innovation, and adaptability, ensuring solutions are both novel

and effective.

Critical thinking is an essential component of the Design Thinking process, as it

enables designers to analyze problems deeply, evaluate potential solutions, and make

informed decisions. It involves logical reasoning, objective analysis, and the ability to

challenge assumptions, all of which are crucial in developing effective and innovative

solutions.

One of the key aspects of critical thinking in Design Thinking is problem analysis.

Before ideating potential solutions, designers must define the problem accurately. Brown

(2009) highlights that a poorly framed problem leads to ineffective solutions, making it

vital for designers to question initial assumptions and explore multiple perspectives. By
critically analyzing the problem, designers ensure they are addressing the root cause

rather than symptoms.

Another important function of critical thinking is evaluating ideas. While creative

thinking generates multiple ideas, critical thinking helps assess their feasibility, usability,

and sustainability. Buchanan (1992) emphasizes the importance of rational evaluation, as

not all ideas are practical or beneficial in the long run. Through prototyping and testing,

designers use critical thinking to refine concepts, identify flaws, and improve the overall

solution.

Additionally, critical thinking fosters ethical and responsible design. Krippendorff

(2006) discusses how designers must consider social, cultural, and environmental

implications. By critically assessing the impact of their solutions, designers ensure they

align with ethical principles and serve the needs of users effectively.

In summary, critical thinking is fundamental to the Design Thinking process. It

allows designers to define problems accurately, evaluate ideas objectively, and create

responsible solutions. Without critical thinking, the process risks producing superficial or

impractical outcomes, ultimately limiting the effectiveness of design solutions.

The gift packages for new employees of Techcombank, including raincoats,

helmets, manuals, lighters, and key chains, are not only popular but also reflect the

combination of creative thinking and critical thinking in design. Every gift is

purposefully chosen to ensure its usefulness, significance, and connection with the brand.
 With regard to creative thinking, gift packages are not only a group of items, but

also reflect the interest of enterprises in new employees. Helmets and raincoats are

necessary items for workers to move safely under abnormal weather conditions,

especially in Vietnam. Guildebook helps employees to get familiar with culture and

workflow easily, and create a professional experience from day one. Lighter is a small

and spiritual item, which can make employees feel more lucky and believe in their career

path at Techcombank. In particular, lighters are not only a daily necessity but also a

symbol of good luck and success, as a good wish for employees in the new journey.

From the perspective of critical thinking, the design of gift bags is based on the

evaluation of practicality and high applicability. The choice of these items is not only

based on popularity but also takes into account cost, demand, and corporate culture

factors. Items such as helmets and raincoats are highly applicable, ensuring that

employees use them, not just as souvenirs. Guidebooks help employees better understand

the company, while key chains and lighters are symbolic and create a sense of connection

with the brand. However, the choice of lighter may cause controversy, because not

everyone uses it, but from a cultural point of view, it represents a smooth start and wishes

for a smooth career.

Generally speaking, this set of gifts not only makes new employees feel

"welcome", but also reflects the "corporate culture construction strategy". This is a

typical example of how creative thinking and reflective thinking can be combined to

create an effective and symbolic solution.

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Brown, T. (2009). Change by design: How design thinking creates new

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thinking (5th ed.). Psychology Press.

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problem solving: A framework for innovation and change. SAGE Publications.

Lubart, T. I. (2001). Models of the creative process: Past, present and future.

Creativity Research Journal, 13(3–4), 295–308.

[Link]

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Creativity Research Journal, 24(1), 92–96.

[Link]

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Mundim, M. C., & Franco, A. (2018). Creative and critical thinking: Independent or

overlapping components? Thinking Skills and Creativity, 27, 114–122.

[Link]

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alternatives for business and society. Harper Business.

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21. [Link]

Krippendorff, K. (2006). The semantic turn: A new foundation for design. CRC

Press.