General
think outside the box
What does think outside the box mean?
To approach a problem in an unconventional or creative way, ignoring the usual constraints.
"We need to think outside the box, the standard playbook isn't working."
Origin
Linked to the nine-dot puzzle popular in management training in the 1970s-80s.
Frequently asked questions
What does think outside the box mean?
It means to approach a problem in an unconventional or creative way, ignoring the usual constraints.
Where does think outside the box come from?
It's linked to the nine-dot puzzle used in management training in the 1970s and 80s, which can only be solved by drawing lines beyond the implied square.
Why is think outside the box criticised?
It's become such an overused cliché in meetings that it can sound like empty jargon rather than genuine creative direction.
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