synectics

Synectics is a problem solving method that stimulates thought processes of which the subject may be unaware. This method was developed by George M. Prince (April 5, 1918 - June 9, 2009)[1] and William J. J. Gordon, originating in the Arthur D. Little Invention Design Unit in the 1950s. They set up Synectics Inc. (now Synecticsworld) in 1960 and the methodology has evolved substantially in the ensuing 50 years.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Synectics