Scamper Technique [BEST IDEA GENERATION METHODS]

Summary

This video introduces the SCAMPER technique, a simple and effective brainstorming method to enhance creativity and problem-solving. SCAMPER stands for Substitute, Combine, Adapt, Modify, Put to another use, Eliminate, and Reverse. Each step encourages users to think outside the box by experimenting with changes in products or processes. The video provides practical examples, such as replacing a paperclip with a staple, combining the functions of a staple and paperclip into a bullnose clip, or using a paperclip as a toothpick. It concludes by encouraging viewers to try SCAMPER and download a guide on why projects fail.

Takeaways

• 😀 The SCAMPER technique is a simple, effective brainstorming method used to boost creative thinking and problem-solving in teams.
• 😀 SCAMPER stands for Substitute, Combine, Adapt, Modify, Put to another use, Eliminate, and Reverse.
• 😀 The 'Substitute' step involves trial and error, where one element is replaced with another to find a better solution.
• 😀 The 'Combine' step focuses on merging two ideas or products into one to create something more efficient or effective.
• 😀 The 'Adapt' step encourages adding new elements to an existing product or process to improve it.
• 😀 The 'Modify' step is about making changes to an existing product or process to make it better or more effective.
• 😀 'Put to another use' suggests using a product or process in a way it wasn’t originally intended, leading to creative new uses.
• 😀 'Eliminate' involves removing unnecessary steps or components to streamline processes or products.
• 😀 The 'Reverse' step involves looking at a product or process and considering whether reversing it could result in innovation or improvement.
• 😀 Each part of the SCAMPER technique can be applied to both products and processes, helping teams find new solutions in both areas.
• 😀 The SCAMPER technique is practical for anyone working with teams or managing projects and can be implemented immediately for brainstorming sessions.

Q & A

What is the SCAMPER technique and how can it help teams?

The SCAMPER technique is a brainstorming method designed to enhance creative thinking and problem-solving. It helps teams generate new, innovative ideas by encouraging them to explore different approaches to products or processes. The acronym stands for Substitute, Combine, Adapt, Modify, Put to another use, Eliminate, and Reverse.

How can teams apply the 'Substitute' step of SCAMPER?

The 'Substitute' step involves replacing one element of a product or process with another to improve it. Teams can ask questions like, 'Is there anything we can substitute within our process to make it better?' or 'Can we substitute components in our product to improve functionality or efficiency?' An example provided in the script was replacing a paperclip with a staple to keep papers together more effectively.

Can you explain the 'Combine' step in SCAMPER?

In the 'Combine' step, teams explore whether two different ideas or processes can be merged to create a more effective solution. For example, the script used the combination of a staple's strength and a paperclip's flexibility, resulting in the creation of a bullnose clip, which combines the benefits of both.

What is the goal of the 'Adapt' step in SCAMPER?

The 'Adapt' step involves adding a new element or adjusting an existing component to make it better or more versatile. An example from the script is adapting a paperclip by coating it with rubber to make it more grippy and prevent papers from slipping out.

How does the 'Modify' step work in the SCAMPER technique?

In the 'Modify' step, the goal is to make a product or process better by changing its design or functionality. The script mentioned modifying a regular paperclip into a larger, more robust clip to handle more papers while maintaining stability.

What is the concept behind the 'Put to Another Use' step in SCAMPER?

The 'Put to Another Use' step encourages teams to think about how a product or process could be used in a completely different context. For instance, in the script, a paperclip is repurposed as a toothpick by bending it, demonstrating a creative alternative use for an everyday item.

What is an example of elimination in the SCAMPER technique?

The 'Eliminate' step focuses on removing unnecessary components or steps in a process to improve efficiency. In the script, it was suggested that instead of using staples in a stapler, a bent corner method could be used to secure papers, eliminating the need for staples altogether.

How does the 'Reverse' step help in the SCAMPER process?

The 'Reverse' step encourages teams to think about how reversing the order or function of a process or product could lead to new insights or innovations. The script didn't provide a concrete example for the paperclip but invited the audience to think of ways they could reverse its typical usage to make it more effective.

Why is the SCAMPER technique valuable for teams working on projects?

The SCAMPER technique is valuable because it provides a structured way for teams to brainstorm and think creatively about problems, leading to innovative solutions. By applying each of the seven steps, teams can explore new perspectives and enhance both products and processes.

How can the SCAMPER technique be applied to project management?

In project management, SCAMPER can be used to evaluate and improve workflows, tackle challenges, or generate new ideas for project deliverables. By asking the right questions under each step (such as 'Can we combine these tasks?' or 'Can we eliminate unnecessary steps?'), project managers can optimize processes and outcomes.