Lateral Thinking Vs Vertical Thinking

Lateral Thinking Vs Vertical Thinking

Lateral thinking and vertical thinking are two distinct problem-solving approaches that designers often employ to generate creative solutions. Lateral thinking, a term coined by Edward de Bono, involves exploring multiple possibilities and perspectives to find innovative solutions, often by making unconventional connections between seemingly unrelated ideas. This approach encourages designers to break free from established patterns of thought and consider problems from new angles, leading to more original and inventive outcomes. In contrast, vertical thinking is a more linear and analytical approach that focuses on solving problems through a step-by-step, logical process. Designers using vertical thinking tend to follow a structured path, building upon existing knowledge and expertise to arrive at a solution. While vertical thinking is effective for solving well-defined problems with clear parameters, lateral thinking is particularly valuable when dealing with complex, open-ended challenges that require a fresh perspective. Both approaches have their merits in the design process, and skilled designers often use a combination of lateral and vertical thinking to develop comprehensive, effective solutions that meet the needs of their clients and end-users. Fun fact: The term lateral thinking is derived from the idea of moving sideways across different possibilities, as opposed to the vertical, step-by-step approach of traditional problem-solving.

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— Taylor Williams

CITATION : "Taylor Williams. 'Lateral Thinking Vs Vertical Thinking.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=436280 (Accessed on July 16, 2025)"