Creative Thinking and Problem Solving Through Cross-Application

The purpose of the paper was to use cross-application as creative problem-solving technique as it applies to apparel design and merchandising and develop a relevant framework that could be used in other disciplines as well. Literature review focused on Creative thinking and problem-solving, problem solving through innovation, and cross-application examples. Finally, a six-step process-driven Cross-Application Model was developed with example of application for post-mastectomy survivors. This exploratory work can be extended to other disciplines, teaching pedagogy and scholarship efforts. The model can be tested for the feasibility of its use in other disciplines, contexts, strengths, weaknesses and needed refinement in future.