The creative process according to Graham Wallas dates back to the 1930s and can probably be described as the original mother of all creative and innovation processes. The sociologist Wallas put forward theses that assumed that ideas do not somehow arise by chance.
He then made various investigations and observations and eventually developed a first-ever comprehensive model for a creative process.
From the original model by Graham Wallas, further and sometimes more detailed models developed over the years. If you look at macro methodologies like Design Thinking or even Lean Startup, you will find great similarities.
Tip.
In our opinion, anyone who is or wants to be in the innovation business should be exposed to all the leading macro methods. Because the commonalities hidden in these methods are the key to a good basic understanding and successful innovation work.
The model according to Wallas
Phase 1
Preparation and preparatory phase
Here, the goal is to gather all even rudimentarily relevant information that could be useful in creatively solving the challenge.
Phase 2
Incubation and maturation phase
Our brain simply also needs time to think of creative solutions to a complex and multi-layered problem. Therefore, in this phase the subconscious is consciously given time to create and “brain” solutions.
Phase 3
Illumination phase
This is the phase or moment of flashes of inspiration, aha moments and eureka exclamations. It is simply the moment when the ideas appear in your mind’s eye in your consciousness.
Phase 4
Verification phase
In order for ideas, especially the good ones, to become reality, the phase of testing, selection, enrichment and elaboration of the ideas now follows.
