The Universal Traveler

The spectrum of human challenge is broad; nothing is fixed about it. Problems and goals come in many forms; each with unique requirements and limitations. This fact often encourages a false impression that a sys- tematic, orderly design process means giving up hopes of ever being truly 'creative' problem-solvers, i.e., the false concept that to be creative, a problem-solver must insist on remaining free from all guides or directions. This, of course, i s not too different from wanting to take a trip, but refusing to use a map.

Creative success need not be linear; it is possible in many different ways. Dogged, linear step-by-step fol- lowing of process stages can be limiting in many situa- tions where variation is clearly needed. Using the same seven stages, there are at least four other ways to or- ganize their interrelationships. In short, there are freer, more natural, ways to reach destinations. Familiarity with all five pathway variations simplifies choosing the one(s) best suited to the varied, separate and unique problem situations in life.

1. Linear Process: Step-by-step logical sequence; be- ing cautious of not getting ahead of yourself. Well- suited to large, complex, team projects;

2. Circular Process: Starting at any stage and ad- vancing to the others in turn. Ideal for lengthy projects (like college programs, summer jobs, contracts, etc.);

3. Feedback Approach: Moving forward while loop- ing back to reconsider previous discoveries. Important when caution is imperative;

4. Branching Paths: Allowing specific events and the interrelation of separate stages to control progress ; and

5. the Natural Pathway: Awareness of all stages concurrently, but emphasis on one or two steps at a time; like viewing seven open boxes in a row, each one ready to receive additional data and thereby modifying your overall thin king accordingly.

Note: If the linear approach to design process is similar to a mule train, with each unit responsible for pulling the one behind it, then the natural way is more like a horse race where all units progress independently; where only one unit is 'out in front' (i.e., in focus) at any given moment. The ideal, of course, is to develop a general process-orientation to life; one where, enroute to su- cess each stage of living i s enjoyed to its fullest, as opposed to the more normal or commonly-held viewpoint of product- orientation, where getting to the end is all that's important.