The SCAMPER technique for creative problem-solving

Do you ever feel stuck in a rut when it comes to solving problems or generating new ideas? 

You're not alone. 

Thankfully, there are techniques like SCAMPER to help you break free and unleash your creative potential.

What is SCAMPER?

SCAMPER is an acronym for seven prompts that guide you through different ways of approaching a problem or idea. By systematically applying these prompts, you can explore new perspectives, challenge assumptions, and come up with fresh solutions.

The Seven SCAMPER Prompts:

1. Substitute: Can you replace any elements of the problem or idea? This could involve materials, processes, people, or even the desired outcome.
2. Combine: Can you merge the problem or idea with something else? Look for unexpected pairings that might spark innovation.
3. Adapt: How can you adjust the problem or idea to fit a different context? Think about existing solutions in other fields that could be adapted.
4. Modify (Magnify & Minify): Can you change the scale, size, or complexity of the problem or idea? Consider both exaggerating and minimizing aspects.
5. Put to another use: How else could you use the problem or idea, even in a completely different way?
6. Eliminate: What aspects of the problem or idea can be removed or simplified? Can constraints be turned into opportunities?
7. Reverse: Can you flip the problem or idea on its head? What if the opposite were true?

Using SCAMPER in Action:

Here's an example of how you might use SCAMPER to brainstorm ways to make meetings more productive:

• Substitute: Can you replace physical meetings with video conferencing for remote participants?
• Combine: Can you combine brainstorming sessions with team-building activities to boost engagement?
• Adapt: How can you adapt the meeting format to be more dynamic, like using breakout sessions or gamification?
• Modify: Can you shorten meeting times or implement a standing-only policy to increase focus?
• Put to another use: Could you use meeting time for collaborative document creation instead of just discussion?
• Eliminate: Can you eliminate unnecessary presentations or reports that take up meeting time?
• Reverse: What if the meeting agenda is set by participants instead of a leader?
  
  
  

SCAMPER Tips:

• Define the problem clearly: The more specific you are, the more effectively you can apply SCAMPER.
• Brainstorm freely: Don't censor your ideas at first. Aim for quantity over quality in the initial phase.
• Build on each other's ideas: Encourage participants to riff off each other's suggestions.
• Have fun! Creativity thrives in a relaxed and playful environment.

By incorporating SCAMPER into your problem-solving toolkit, you'll be well on your way to generating innovative solutions and igniting your creative spark.