Disney Method: How the Creative Thinking Strategy Works

Walt Disney not only created cartoon characters such as Mickey Mouse and Bambi, but also developed an ingenious method for generating ideas.

The author Robert Dilts described in 1994 that Disney adopted three perspectives in his work:

• The dreamer – develops visions without limits
• The realist – examines the practical implementation
• The critic – scrutinizes and identifies weaknesses

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1. The Three Roles of the Disney Method

The roles form the basic principle of the Disney Method, which is used today in creative processes, problem solving and innovation workshops.

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The Dreamer: Unleashing Boundless Creativity

This role is about thinking big. The dreamer imagines that anything is possible – no budget limits, no time constraints, no obstacles. His questions could be:

• What if money was no object?
• What would the perfect solution look like?
• What crazy ideas could work?

This is where the first creative approaches emerge. The important thing is not to censor yourself – everything is allowed!

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The Realist: Check Feasibility

The realist takes on the next phase and analyzes how the ideas can be implemented. They ask specific questions such as:

• What resources do we need?
• What steps are necessary?
• How can we turn the idea into reality?

This is where the dreamer's vision is put on a realistic footing.

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The Critic: Assessing Risks

The critic is not there to destroy ideas, but to recognize potential problems. His questions could be:

• What could go wrong?
• What risks are there?
• What negative consequences do we need to consider?

This phase ensures that no naïve or ill-considered decisions are made.

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2. Extension: The Neutral Observer

If you combine all three roles in a project, you can examine both the positive aspects and potential downsides.

Sometimes, however, the classic Disney method with three roles is not enough. A fourth role can help: the neutral observer or consultant.

This person looks at the ideas objectively and combines the three perspectives. The result is a balanced solution.

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3. Apply the Disney Method in Practice

Would you like to try out the Disney method for yourself? Here's how:

1. Find a topic or problem for which you need creative ideas.
2. Consciously switch perspectives: first be the dreamer, then the realist, then the critic. If you are working in a team, each person can take on a role.
3. Note down the findings of each phase so that you can filter out the best ideas later.
4. If necessary, take on the role of observer to weigh up the results.

The technique is ideal for brainstorming sessions, product development or any creative project. So next time you're struggling with a blockage – just think like Walt Disney!