SCAMPER and TRIZ are two popular methodologies used for creative problem solving and innovation. Here’s a brief overview of each:
SCAMPER:
SCAMPER is a mnemonic technique that helps with brainstorming by encouraging you to ask different types of questions that stimulate creativity. The acronym stands for:
- S – Substitute: What can you substitute to improve the product/process?
- C – Combine: Can you combine two or more elements to create something new?
- A – Adapt: How can you adapt the product/process to different contexts or uses?
- M – Modify: Can you modify or magnify any aspect of the product/process?
- P – Put to another use: Can you use this product/process for a different purpose?
- E – Eliminate: What can you eliminate to simplify or streamline?
- R – Reverse: Can you rearrange or reverse the process for a different outcome?
SCAMPER is often used for product development, business processes, and creative marketing strategies because it encourages looking at a problem from different angles.
TRIZ (Theory of Inventive Problem Solving):
TRIZ is a more structured approach to innovation developed by the Russian engineer Genrich Altshuller. It is based on analyzing millions of patents and identifying patterns of inventive solutions. The main components of TRIZ include:
- Contradictions: TRIZ identifies contradictions in a system (where improving one part worsens another) and seeks to resolve them without compromise.
- 40 Inventive Principles: TRIZ offers 40 principles that guide innovative solutions. For example, principles like “Segmentation,” “Merging,” or “Using Inexpensive Substitutes” help to systematically solve problems.
- ARIZ (Algorithm of Inventive Problem Solving): A step-by-step algorithm to address complex problems.
- Nine Windows: A tool to look at a problem from different perspectives (past, present, future, and different system levels).
- S-curve analysis: Used to identify the stage of a product or technology in its lifecycle and predict future developments.
Whereas SCAMPER focuses on lateral thinking and stimulating creative ideas through questioning, TRIZ is based on engineering and innovation patterns, providing structured ways to approach technical and complex problems.
Both methodologies are valuable in innovation, but they serve different purposes: SCAMPER is more intuitive and brainstorming-friendly, while TRIZ is analytical and systematic.
