Vertical thinking – A logical, step-by-step approach to problem solving. It follows a structured and sequential path relying upon established knowledge, rules, and analytical reasoning. This helps analysts systematically evaluate information, verify facts, and draw conclusions based on evidence. It can sometimes limit creativity by discouraging alternative perspectives. This approach should be combined with lateral thinking.
Lateral Thinking – Focuses on creativity, unconventional ideas, and breaking away from traditional thought patterns. It encourages the exploration of different perspectives, helping to reinterpret information, and ultimately find more innovative solutions. It can help uncover hidden patterns, challenge assumptions, and generate explanations that were not originally considered.
A good analyst needs to be able to bounce between these two trains of thought in order to get after difficult problems. They play off each other using their specific strengths which compliment different aspects in each.