One of the results of the intersection between my two professional endeavors, Project Management and Innovation Management, is the use of a tool I call the "Creativity Breakdown Structure" or CBS.  Just as a "Work Breakdown Structure" in project management helps to define manageable pieces of logically-sequenced work, the CBS Tool helps solve complex problems.

The key steps within this tool are:

1. Define the problem to be solved as simply as possible
2. Develop logical segments/extensions/symptoms/attributes of the problem
3. Prioritize the logical segments along pre-defined criteria (e.g. likelihood of solution, critical problem triage, etc.)
4. Map thought processes, work processes and other steps necessary to solve each segment
5. Assign tasks based on steps defined in #4 to appropriate resources
6. Assign duration/work effort to each task
7. Develop classical project work breakdown structure

It is a rather complex tool/technique, but it is very effective in breaking down a very complex problem and getting manageable work packages out of the other end.  It is also one of the tools within the Innovation Road Map tool set, which is a different kind of innovation consultation service offering.  Similar to the traditional "TripTik™"* created by AAA, this new service developed by Think For A Change, LLC. builds YOUR customized innovation road map based upon YOUR unique growth needs.

Additionally, one of the key visual tools in utilizing this problem-solving concept is the mind map.  Rather than cover the mind mapping concept here, I'll point you to the quintessential expert in mind mapping, Chuck Frey, and his Mind Mapping Blog.