Going low on creativity?

Let’s be honest, sometimes we hit a creative roadblock. Our minds seem stuck in a rut, unable to generate fresh ideas or innovate. So what do do then? Well, there’s a practical solution.

We have a powerful tool at our disposal: the SCAMPER technique.

What is SCAMPER?

SCAMPER stands for Substitute, Combine, Adapt, Modify, Put to another use, Eliminate, and Reverse. 

It's a versatile and practical method for stimulating creative thinking and problem-solving.

Let’s break it down one by one.

Substitute:

Swap out elements of your idea with something else. 

Think outside the box and consider alternative materials, processes, or concepts. 

Take Elon Musk’s SpaceX for example, Instead of traditional fuel, they substitute it with sustainable alternatives like electric propulsion.

Combine:

Here, we seek to merge or blend different elements or ideas to create something new. 

By blending different elements, you can generate unique solutions that stand out from the crowd.

Like how the iPhone combined a phone, music player, and internet browser into one revolutionary device.

Adapt:

Take inspiration from existing ideas and adapt them to suit your needs.

Look for ways to modify and customize existing solutions to solve your specific challenges.

You know right how Netflix adapted the video rental model by offering streaming services, disrupting the industry?

Modify:

This step involves making changes to existing ideas to improve or enhance them.

Whether it's tweaking the design, functionality, or approach, modification can lead to breakthrough innovations.

You can relate it to how Tesla modified the perception of electric cars by focusing on luxury, performance, and sustainability.

Put to Another Use:

Here, we explore alternative uses or applications for existing products, services, or ideas. 

Consider how your idea can be repurposed or utilized in different contexts to unlock new opportunities.

Have you heard of Post-it Notes? They were initially a failed adhesive that was repurposed for temporary notes that we use.

Eliminate:

Sometimes less is more. In this step, we identify elements or features that are unnecessary or redundant and eliminate them. 

Simplifying your concept can streamline the creative process and focus on what truly matters.

For example, how Google streamlined internet search by eliminating cluttered search results and ads.

Reverse:

Lastly, we flip the problem on its head and consider it from a different perspective. 

This involves asking "what if" questions and challenging assumptions. 

The best example that comes to my mind is how Airbnb reversed the traditional hotel model by allowing individuals to rent out their spaces to travelers.

But isn’t Creativity reserved?

No, creativity is not reserved for the chosen few.

It's a skill that can be cultivated and nurtured. Start using the SCAMPER technique today to unlock endless possibilities!

To sum up, let's remember:

Catch you in the next one, meanwhile, do me a favor, stay curious and happy!

I am Leaving,

Mayank