SCAMPER Overview
SCAMPER is a creative problem-solving technique that can be used to generate new ideas and solutions. The acronym stands for the following seven categories of modifications:
Substitute: What if we replaced an element of the product or service with something else? What can be replaced?
Combine: What if we combined this product or service with another?
Adapt: What if we adapted this product or service to a different use or user? What can be added? (such as new elements or functions)
Modify: What if we changed the size, shape, color, texture, or other physical aspect of the product or service? Modify, Magnify, maximize, minimize: What can be modified? (for example, change the size, shape, color, or other attribute)
Put to other use: What if we used this product or service in a different way?
Eliminate or minimize: What if we removed an element of the product or service?
Reverse: What if we did the opposite of what is normally done? Reverse, reengineer, or rearrange: What would happen if you reversed the product’s production process? What can be swapped or flipped?
SCAMPER provides a structured approach to innovation and can be used in a variety of industries and contexts. By focusing on specific modifications, it helps individuals and organizations generate new ideas and solutions that they may not have considered otherwise. The technique is designed to encourage out-of-the-box thinking and to challenge assumptions about what is possible.
Initial prompt describing the background and the goal. Identify the [object to be improved].
MECHANICAL SYSTEM:
S. Described how we can replace the [object to be improved] it with something else.
C. Described how we can combine the [object to be improved] with another element or component.
A. Described how we can adapt the [object to be improved] for a different use or user.
M. Described how we can change the size, shape, color, texture or other physical aspect of the [object to be improved].
P. Described how the [object to be improved] can be used in a different way.
E. Described how we can eliminate the [object to be improved] and still retain the purpose and benefit of the original [object to be improved].
R. Described how we can use or apply the [object to be improved] in a different way?
MECHANICAL SUB-SYSTEM:
S. For each element or component of the [object to be improved], described how we can replace it with something else.
C. For each element or component of the [object to be improved], described how we can combine it with another element or component.
A. For each element or component of the [object to be improved], described how we can adapt it for a different use or user
M. For each element or component of the [object to be improved], described how we can change the size, shape, color, texture or other physical aspect the element or component.
P. For each element or component of the [object to be improved], described how we can use it in a different way.
E. For each element or component of the [object to be improved], described how we can eliminate it without negatively impacting the [object to be improved] in use, performance or efficiency.
R. For each element or component of the [object to be improved], described how we can use it in a different way.
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EXAMPLE: I want to improve the performance of the standard design bicycle.
Types of Improvement (TOI) for Mechanical Systems:
Efficiency: The efficiency of a mechanical system refers to the ratio of the useful output to the input energy. Improving the efficiency of a mechanical system can reduce energy waste and lower operating costs.
Reliability: Reliability refers to the ability of a mechanical system to perform its intended function without failure. Improving reliability can reduce maintenance costs and increase overall system uptime.
Durability: Durability refers to the ability of a mechanical system to withstand wear and tear over time. Improving durability can increase the lifespan of a mechanical system and reduce replacement costs.
Precision: Precision refers to the accuracy and repeatability of a mechanical system's movements. Improving precision can increase the quality of the output and reduce the need for manual correction.
Responsiveness: Responsiveness refers to the speed at which a mechanical system can respond to changes in its environment. Improving responsiveness can increase the speed and accuracy of the system's output.
Control: Control refers to the ability to regulate and manipulate the behavior of a mechanical system. Improving control can increase the flexibility and adaptability of a mechanical system.
Cost: Cost refers to the financial expenses associated with manufacturing, operating, and maintaining a mechanical system. Improving cost can make the system more affordable and accessible.