aaOne approach that can be taken to encourage thinking about new ideas is the SCAMPER method. SCAMPER stands for: (S) substitute, (C) combine, (A) adapt, (M) modify, (P) put to another use, (E) eliminate and (R) reverse. In a new ideas/directions call (if such a call is needed), we would follow the steps below:
Substitute
We think about our system and/or processprocesses, considering what can be replaced:
- What part of the suggestion the system/process can be substituted without affecting the whole project?
- Who or what can be substituted without affecting the suggestionsystem/process?
- What part can be replaced with better alternatives?
- Can we replace the suggestion system/process with simpler one?
Combine
We analyse the possibility of merging two steps or suggestions parts of our system or processes into a single more efficient result:
- Can we merge two steps of the suggestiona process?
- Can we apply two suggestions processes at the same time?
- Can we combine resources with another humanitarian partner?
- Can we combine two or more components in our system together?
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We look at adjusting or tweaking the existing products system or services processes for a better outcome:
- What would we need to change to produce better results?
- What else could be done in this specific task?
- How can we improve the existing process?
- How can we make the process more flexible?
Modify, minify or magnify
We look at fundamental/substantive changes to products the system or processes:
- How will modifying the process improve results?
- What if we had a double consumer base?
- If the market was different, what would the process look like?
- Can we change the process to work more efficiently?
- What if the product is double the current size?
Put to another use
We consider if applying the current product system or process in processes for another purpose or how to use the existing product to solve problems. For example, this technique can be used to learn how to shift an existing product to another market segment or user type. The questions in this technique can include the following:
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in a new area:
- Who else might use the system or process?
- What are the benefits for the product system or process if used elsewhere?
- What if we target another market segmentation for the current product?
- Can we add a specific step into the process to replace another?
- What are other ways can we use it?
- Can we recycle the waste for another use?
Eliminate or elaborate
As the name implies, this technique aims to We identify the parts of the process or system that can be eliminated to improve the process product or service. It also helps to explore the unnecessary parts of the project. Questions related to this part includes:
- What would happened if we removed this part?
- How can we achieve the same output result without that specific part of the projectsystem?
- Do we need this specific part?
- What would we do if we had to work with half the resources?
- In some situations, the unnecessary resources or steps in the process provide extra load for the project to achieve innovation and creativity. Eliminating these resources extends the ability to innovate and allocate more resources for creativity within the organizations.
Reverse
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Reverse
We consider changing the order of the process in the production line. Reversing the process or part of it can help solving problems or produce more innovative output. The questions in this part includeprocesses or parts of the system:
- What would happened if we reverse the process?How can we rearrange the current status for better output?
- What if we consider it backwards?
- Can we interchange elements?