Metaphors are a great way to build your creative muscles and communicate. A metaphor compares an existing problem to a new problem, object or situation. The word originates from the Greek word metaphorá, meaning to transfer, to carry over.
Other uses
Achieve a deep understanding to solve complex problems
Consider alternative perspectives
Define assumptions and challenge them
Identify innovative ideas
Workshops or training events eg for icebreakers, brainstorming, problem defining, solution finding
Helps you to get 'unstuck' in thinking
Patient consultations
Consulting with trainee
Managing complexity and challenges at work
Think of a topic
Link this to another idea.
Use an image generator: https://randomwordgenerator.com/picture.php
Use everyday experiences (see below)
What questions and ideas emerge?
Consider Thunk Questions,
What do you need to do next? How can you apply this to your work/life?
Mood boards are a collection of visual images/photos which bring an idea to life.
Use Chatgpt or google to find metaphors
Explore the metaphors: what works and what is missing.
Consider alternative metaphors
Gardening: growing plants, tools, weeds, watering
Home: DIY, rooms, furniture
Cooking and eating: recipes, cooks, chefs
Work
Hobbies: treasure hunting, running, fitness, cycling
Holidays & travel: car, plane, beach
Professions eg medical, doctors, engineers, mechanics, teachers, mountaineers
I came across the word repackaging and generated a random image which revealed a ship on the sea. Ideas that emerged from this include
going on a voyage and returning to your start. Repackaging the journey is not much use if you don't get anywhere.
Fixing a hole on a ship by painting it. Or the titanic: reordering the deckchairs. Repackaging should add value for the customer. It protects the content, hints at the content and grabs attention (marketing).
This book on innovation uses metaphors to describes mindsets and skills for design thinkers.