Integrative thinking

Integrative thinking is the ability to comprehend the relationships among events or objects whose association is not obvious to the unskilled observer. It is a critical skill in battle command because of the large number of interacting factors on the battlefield and frequent necessity for rapid decision making. Synthesis is a related term that can be used interchangeably with integration. Integration involves the generation of plausible and rational explanations or solutions in complex situations based upon knowledge gained through experience and study.

The integrative thinking concept can be illustrated by giving partial information and discussing what the known information means.

Four steps of integrative thinking

Integrative thinking is a process of four steps:

1. As it begins, the integrative thinker takes into consideration any and all possible factors, involved in the problem or conflict. Possibilities aren't limited to only two or three variables. Even if some of them are direct opposites and have the potential to cause stress and dissension, the integrative thinker is able to manage extreme situations simultaneously.
2. Second, he begins to sort through them and find multidirectional and nonlinear relationships among the factors. The integrative thinker will look at the entire scenario and not limit options to only one choice.
3. The third step involves making a decision or proposing a viable solution for the problem. The integrative thinker alone considers the entire problem with all its factors and how possible solutions will affect each other. This information remains in the problem solver's mind only and is not dealt out to others for their interjections.
4. The final step of the process is achieving the resolution. At this point, the problem area or tension is resolved and creative outcomes emerge.

Organizing the curriculum around integrative thinking skills

Beyond finding ways to integrate functional knowledge, Toronto's Rotman School of Management takes the view that integrative thinking in itself is a fundamental management function requiring specialized skills. In other words, it is a meta-skill, a capability needed to successfully mesh two or more skills developed by specialized training, such as training in finance or strategy. Integrative thinking defines as the ability to constructively face the tensions of opposing models, and instead of choosing one at the expense of the other, generate a creative resolution of the tension in the form of a new model that contains elements of the individual models, but is superior to each.

Examples of Integrative thinking

• Integrative thinking can be seen in the way a product designer puts together the various components of a product to create a cohesive whole. The designer must take into account the various pieces, their functions, and how they interact with each other to create a successful product.
• Integrative thinking can be seen in the way a doctor diagnoses a patient. The doctor must take into account the patient’s symptoms, medical history, and other factors to arrive at the correct diagnosis.
• Integrative thinking can be seen in the way a financial analyst evaluates a company’s financial performance. The analyst must consider the company’s past performance, current market conditions, and industry trends to accurately assess the company’s financial health.
• Integrative thinking can be seen in the way a software engineer creates a complex software solution. The engineer must consider the various components of the solution, their interactions with each other, and how they all fit together to create a successful program.

Advantages of Integrative thinking

Integrative thinking has many advantages. It encourages creativity, problem-solving and critical thinking. It helps to better understand complex situations and make informed decisions. Additionally, it can lead to more accurate predictions and reduce the chances of making wrong decisions. Here are some of the main advantages of integrative thinking:

• It helps to develop a holistic view of complex problems, allowing one to identify potential solutions that may not be apparent to the untrained eye.
• It encourages creative and innovative thought processes, leading to more efficient solutions.
• It helps to develop a better understanding of one’s own values and beliefs and how they can shape decisions.
• It can help to make more informed decisions, based on a comprehensive understanding of the circumstances.
• It can lead to improved communication, since integrative thinkers are better able to explain their thought processes to others.
• It can help to foster collaboration between individuals, as integrative thinkers are better able to uncover common ground and shared goals.

Limitations of Integrative thinking

Integrative thinking, while a powerful tool, is not without its limitations. These include:

• Time constraints: Integrative thinking requires a significant amount of time to evaluate all the available information, weigh the pros and cons, and come to a conclusion. This can be a challenge in situations where time is of the essence.
• Cognitive bias: People can be limited in their ability to integrate information if they have a cognitive bias or preconceived notion about the situation. This can lead to a lack of objectivity and can prevent the person from seeing the bigger picture.
• Lack of knowledge: Integrative thinking requires a deep understanding of the topic at hand, as well as a solid base of information. Without this knowledge, one may not be able to synthesize the information in a meaningful way.
• Over-reliance on intuition: Integrative thinking should not be used as a substitute for good judgement. Intuition is a valuable tool, but it should not be relied upon too heavily, as it can lead to errors in judgement.

Other approaches related to Integrative thinking

Integrative thinking is a critical skill in many situations, and there are a number of approaches associated with it. These approaches include:

• Systems Thinking - This approach seeks to understand the interconnectedness of complex systems and how they interact with one another. It is useful for understanding the relationships between parts and their overall impact on the whole.
• Creative Problem Solving - This approach encourages out-of-the-box thinking and encourages creative solutions to complex problems.
• Design Thinking - This approach focuses on the user experience and uses a combination of creativity and empathy to come up with solutions that meet user needs.
• Collaborative Problem Solving - This approach encourages collaboration between parties to come up with creative solutions to complex problems.

In summary, integrative thinking is a critical skill for many situations and is facilitated by a number of approaches including systems thinking, creative problem solving, design thinking, and collaborative problem solving.

Footnotes

Integrative thinking — recommended articles

Model of creativity — Creative thinking skills — Complex problem solving — Parallel thinking — Creative problem solving — Ontological and epistemological — Advantages of simulation — Conceptual skills — Innovative thinking

References

• Datar S., Garvin D.A., Cullen P.G., (2010), Business Education, Harvard Business Press, Boston.
• Fallesen J.J., Michel R., (2000), Practical Thinking: Innovation in Battle Command Instruction, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington.
• Sharma S.L., (2010), Educational Management, Global India Publications, New Delhi.
• Sterling B.S., (2003), Review of Battle Staff Training Research, U.S. Army Research Institute, Washington.

Author: Kinga Krzyściak