A more rigorous way to use the SCAMPER brainstorming method
If you’re not familiar with it, SCAMPER is a brainstorming method for augmenting or “creating” new ideas, methods, etc. The basic process is briefly described here:
How to use SCAMPER on eHow.com
This method is fine on its own and can be used without modification. However, it can be useful to go further by redeploying the same process against its results. In other words:
- Go through the basic analysis. As you’re doing so create your list of ideas.
- Once you’ve complete the first pass go through the list and re-apply each of the 9 principles to each item in your list.
- In addition to factors outside of your list, for substitution, combination, adaptation and elimination consider whether other items on your list could be applied to the current item.
- Make note of any new ideas that come to mind.
- Repeat this process as many times as desired using the newly emerging ideas.
The point is to encourage more in-depth understanding of the ideas and generate more varied output.
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