Overview
This 90-minute introduction provides practical techniques for sparking fresh ideas and overcoming common barriers to creativity. With a focus on mindset, simple brainstorming methods, and real-world examples, learners will gain immediate tools to think more innovatively—even in time-pressured, hybrid environments. The session equips participants with a foundation in creative thinking that can be applied directly to everyday work challenges.
Prerequisites
No prior experience is required. Participants should have an interest in building their problem-solving toolkit and developing new approaches to idea generation.
Target audience
This course is designed for professionals at all levels who want to strengthen their ability to approach challenges creatively and foster innovation within their teams. It is particularly relevant for those seeking to enhance collaboration, adaptability, and continuous improvement in the workplace.
Learning outcomes
By the end of this course, learners will be able to:
- Recognise the value of creative thinking in solving problems and driving innovation.
- Identify and address common barriers to creativity such as time pressure, perfectionism, or fear of judgement.
- Apply simple brainstorming and idea-generation techniques to everyday tasks.
- Build confidence in sharing ideas and encouraging creativity in team settings.
- Take away practical strategies for cultivating a creative mindset in fast-paced environments.
What will the course cover?
Foundations of creativity
- Why creativity matters in today’s organisations
- The link between creativity, innovation, and adaptability
- Real-world examples of creativity in action
Common blockers to creativity
- Recognising typical barriers such as fear of failure, narrow thinking, and time pressure
- Practical strategies to overcome mental blocks
- Group reflection: identifying personal and organisational blockers
Idea generation basics
- Introduction to simple brainstorming methods (e.g., mind mapping, checklists)
- Quick exercises to encourage divergent thinking
- Applying methods to everyday work challenges
Practical takeaways
- Small but effective changes to build a more creative culture
- Encouraging teams to share ideas openly and constructively
- Action planning: embedding creativity into daily workflows
Exams and assessments
There are no formal exams for this course. Learners will complete short exercises and group activities designed to demonstrate understanding and application of creative thinking concepts.
Hands-on learning
This course uses an interactive format, with quick group exercises and brainstorming activities that help learners apply creativity tools immediately. Participants will leave with a set of simple, practical methods they can use in their own workplace.
Frequently asked questions
How can I create an account on myQA.com?
There are a number of ways to create an account. If you are a self-funder, simply select the "Create account" option on the login page.
If you have been booked onto a course by your company, you will receive a confirmation email. From this email, select "Sign into myQA" and you will be taken to the "Create account" page. Complete all of the details and select "Create account".
If you have the booking number you can also go here and select the "I have a booking number" option. Enter the booking reference and your surname. If the details match, you will be taken to the "Create account" page from where you can enter your details and confirm your account.
Find more answers to frequently asked questions in our FAQs: Bookings & Cancellations page.
How do QA’s virtual classroom courses work?
Our virtual classroom courses allow you to access award-winning classroom training, without leaving your home or office. Our learning professionals are specially trained on how to interact with remote attendees and our remote labs ensure all participants can take part in hands-on exercises wherever they are.
We use the WebEx video conferencing platform by Cisco. Before you book, check that you meet the WebEx system requirements and run a test meeting to ensure the software is compatible with your firewall settings. If it doesn’t work, try adjusting your settings or contact your IT department about permitting the website.
How do QA’s online courses work?
QA online courses, also commonly known as distance learning courses or elearning courses, take the form of interactive software designed for individual learning, but you will also have access to full support from our subject-matter experts for the duration of your course.
Once you have purchased the Online course and have completed your registration, you will receive the necessary details to enable you to immediately access it through our e-learning platform and you can start to learn straight away, from any compatible device. Access to the online learning platform is valid for one year from the booking date.
All courses are built around case studies and presented in an engaging format, which includes storytelling elements, video, audio and humour. Every case study is supported by sample documents and a collection of Knowledge Nuggets that provide more in-depth detail on the wider processes.
When will I receive my joining instructions?
Joining instructions for QA courses are sent two weeks prior to the course start date, or immediately if the booking is confirmed within this timeframe. For course bookings made via QA but delivered by a third-party supplier, joining instructions are sent to attendees prior to the training course, but timescales vary depending on each supplier’s terms. Read more FAQs.
When will I receive my certificate?
Certificates of Achievement are issued at the end the course, either as a hard copy or via email. Read more here.