Idea Generation Techniques
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Brainstorming: Quantity Breeds Quality
Defer judgment Focus on quantity Build on ideas Stay focused
Encourage all ideas, no Aim for a high volume of Combine and improve Keep the discussion
matter how wild they diverse ideas. upon existing aligned with the specific
seem. suggestions. topic.
Brainstorming groups generate 37% more ideas when using visual aids.
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Mind Mapping: Visualizing
Connections
Central idea
Place the core concept in the middle.
Related themes
Connect subtopics and associated ideas.
Keywords & images
Simplify information for better recall.
Free association
Let your mind wander and explore paths.
MindManager is used by 83% of Fortune 100 companies.
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SCAMPER: A Checklist for
Innovation
Substitute
What can be replaced?
Example: Instead of using plastic packaging, can we use biodegradable materials?
Combine
What can be merged?
Example: Can we combine a fitness app with a diet planner for better results?
Adapt
What can be altered?
Example: Can we adapt restaurant food delivery models for medicine delivery?
Modify
What can be changed?
Example: Can we make smartphones with extra battery life or flexible screens?
SCAMPER was developed by Bob Eberle, based on the work of Alex Osborn.
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SCAMPER: A Checklist for
Innovation
Put to Another Use – Use an existing product in a new way.
Example: Can we use old newspapers to make eco-friendly bags?
Eliminate – Remove unnecessary components to simplify a process.
Example: Can we remove unnecessary steps in online shopping checkout?
Reverse (or Rearrange) – Change the sequence or structure.
Example: Can we reverse the customer service process by offering self-help AI
chat before human support?
SCAMPER was developed by Bob Eberle, based on the work of Alex Osborn.
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The 5 Whys: Root Cause Analysis
1 State problem
Clearly define the issue.
2 Ask "Why?"
Drill down to the fundamental cause.
3 Beyond symptoms
Focus on underlying reasons.
4 Find root
Reach an actionable insight.
Encourage honesty to create a safe space for truthful answers.
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Reverse Brainstorming: Identifying Problems
Define Negative ideas Reverse
Clearly state the issue. Make the problem worse. Turn ideas into solutions.
Instead of improving customer service, how can we make it terrible?
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Random Word Association
2 Associate
1
Random word
New ideas
3
Problem: Improve employee morale. Random word: "Bicycle." Ideas: Team-building bicycle tours.
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Cultivating a Creative Mindset
1 Idea Generation
Practice and experimentation are key.
2 Combine techniques
Adapt methods for situations.
3 Culture
Foster an environment for ideas.
4 Every idea
Small improvements can lead to big breakthroughs.
Ideas increase profit margins by 38%. Every idea matters.
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