PEM means Psychological and Emotional Methods, referring to methods of creativity / invention / problem solving. In contrast to TRIZ, PEM uses techniques such as brainstorming, forced analogy, and many other tools. When people are thinking about wacky methods of being more creative, they usually are thinking about one of the PEM tools.
We (BIG) feel, with all due respect to Altshuller (TRIZ guy), that PEM does in fact have a place in creativity and invention. We have applied it quite successfully, in conjunction with TRIZ, especially in the early stages of ideation.
PEM tools work well in a team environment where people can have fun. Kinda sounds like us, doesn’t it!