Combine Creativity and Results

In academia, critical thinking is the norm and asking questions is required. 

On most campuses, questioning ideas is the first step, and the second is questioning the question. As a result, academia has a reputation for being too open ended and sluggish. In industry, we prefer to set a deadline, get things done, focus on execution. We worry that thinking about an idea could hold up progress. Combine the two approaches to be sure you are both thinking creatively and getting results. Ask lot of questions but don't let the questions impede movement. 

The questions should drive you toward a clear, defensible outcome.