The Secret of Innovation!
The purpose of this article is to help you learn about the applicability of idea generation&development methods in a fun way while reading. I have illustrated these methods with real stories that support them. At the end of my writing, I will leave you alone with the idea development workshop area. Here, you will find activities and more that you can do before applying idea generation methods.
Let’s read!
A Guide to Idea Generation and Development
Under this heading, I have covered a total of 10 idea generation and development methods. These are Brainstorming, Brainstorm Cards, , 6 Thinking Hats, Morphological Analysis, Reverse Engineering, Mind Mapping, TRIZ (Theory of Inventive Problem Solving), Crazy Ideas, Design Thinking and Blend The Trend. I provided a brief description of these methods, how to apply them, and wrote a real story for some.
1- Brain Storming:
> What is this?
Brainstorming is a group thinking and idea generation technique used with the purpose of finding creative solutions to problems and generating new ideas.
> How to use?
- Participant Preparation and Focus Setting
- Idea Generation
- Sharing Ideas
- Grouping Similar Ideas**
- Making Selections Between Groups**
- Developing Selected Ideas**
- Customizing and Improving Ideas
- Evaluating and Choosing Results
- Implementing Ideas or Further Development
- Feedback and Follow-up
> Let’s read this method in a real story!
Brainstorming is a method that has been successfully used in many industries and organizations. For example, “Post-it” notes were discovered by engineers at the 3M company during a brainstorming session. This simple product is now used in many offices and homes today.
> For additional information, click here.
2- Brainstorm Cards:
> What is this?
Idea development cards are specially designed cards used to encourage creative thinking and facilitate the generation of new ideas. These cards typically represent different concepts, objects, actions, or problems. Each card helps participants explore different ways of thinking by examining the themes or features on the game cards.
> How to use?
- Cards are randomly distributed.
- The cards are examined. (These cards provide a starting point for initiating creative thinking).
- The thinking process is initiated.
- Generating ideas begins.
> For additional information, click here.
3. Six Thinking Hats
> What is this?
The Six Thinking Hats technique is a thinking and decision-making method developed by Edward de Bono. This method helps people enhance their emotional intelligence and thinking skills. The name is based on each hat representing a different thinking style.
> How to use?
- Defining the Topic
- Identifying the Six Hats
- Sequential Thinking with Each Hat
- Discussion Under Each Hat
- Evaluating the Results
- Collective Evaluation and Decision
> What is the role and usage of each hat?
> For additional information, click here.
4. Morphological Analysis
> What is this?
Morphological analysis is a thinking and problem-solving technique where complex problems are approached using a systemic approach. This method is used to solve a problem or design a new product, system, or process. Morphological analysis aims to systematically combine different components or factors to create new solution paths and designs.
> How to use?
- (This can be product development, process improvement, or designing a new service).
- Identify Components -> Break down the problem into smaller components.
- List Variations of Components.
- Create Combinations -> Determine variables for each component.
- Evaluate Combinations -> Consider the advantages and disadvantages of each combination.
- Select the Best Solutions.
- Develop and Detail the Chosen Solutions.
- Implement or Prototype the Solutions.
> For additional information, click here.
5. Reverse Engineering
> What is this?
Reverse engineering is an engineering approach commonly used to understand the structure, functionality, or design of a complex product or system. This method aims to uncover unknown features or internal operating principles of a product or system.
> How to use?
- Determine Objectives and Goals.
- Gather Information and Documentation.
- Examine the Product.
- Analyze Components.
- Software Analysis (if applicable).
- Evaluate Analysis Results.
- Generate Improvement or Redesign Ideas (Optional).
- Reporting and Documentation.
> For additional information, click here.
6. Mind Mapping
> What is this?
Mind maps are tools used to visually organize and represent thought processes. They typically branch out from a central idea or topic to show different subtopics and relationships. Mind maps simplify complex information and facilitate understanding. They are used to organize and visualize individuals’ notes, ideas, plans, and projects.
> How to use?
- Define the Topic.
- Determine the Main Idea.
- Create Main Branches.
- Sub-Branches and Details.
- Colors, Shapes, and Visual Elements.
- Free Thinking and Organization.
- Visualizing Relationships and Connections.
- Visual and Text Balance.
- Revise and Improve.
- Sharing or Utilization.
> For additional information, click here.
7. TRIZ (Theory of Inventive Problem Solving)
> What is this?
TRIZ, by bringing a creative and systematic approach to problem-solving, helps accelerate and make solution processes more effective. This method is particularly useful in engineering, design, and innovation fields, but it can be successfully applied in other areas as well.
> How to use?
- Problem Definition
- Literature Studies
- Innovation and Creativity Principles
- Solution Design
- Evaluation of the Solution
- Prototype or Implementation
> Let’s read this method in a real story!
Design of Hollow Water Bottle: TRIZ was used for the design of a hollow water bottle. This design allowed for reduced water consumption while using the same amount of water.
> For additional information, click here.
8. Crazy Ideas
> What is this?
“Crazy Ideas,” are unconventional, creative, and unexpected thought suggestions. These ideas break away from traditional or conventional thought patterns and can help generate innovative solutions or design concepts.
> How to use?
- Problem Identification
- Brainstorming
- Encouraging Creativity -> No limits, think absurd
- Thinking About the Unthinkable
- Sharing Ideas
- Evaluation and Selection
> Let’s read this method in a real stories!
Google’s “20% Time” Policy: Google allows its employees to dedicate 20% of their time each week to personal projects or crazy ideas. This policy has led to the creation of products like Gmail.
Apple’s iPhone: The design of the first iPhone was a crazy idea by the standards of its time. However, this crazy idea fundamentally changed the smartphone industry and became a huge success.
Tesla’s Electric Cars: Tesla focused on producing entirely electric cars, which was a crazy idea compared to the traditional automotive industry. Now, it’s one of the leaders in the electric car market.
> For additional information, click here.
9. Design Thinking
> What is this?
Design Thinking is a creative problem-solving and design approach used to solve a problem or develop new products, services, or processes. This approach focuses on user needs and encourages innovation by leveraging multiple perspectives.
> How to use?
What is Design Thinking? Design Thinking is a creative problem-solving and design approach used to solve a problem or develop new products, services, or processes. This approach focuses on user needs and encourages innovation by leveraging multiple perspectives.
The Design Thinking Process and Stages:
- Empathize
- Define the Problem
- Ideate
- Prototype
- Test
- Implement
> Let’s read this method in a real stories!
Examples of User-Centered Product Development with Design Thinking: Apple iPhone: When developing the iPhone, Apple adopted an approach centered around user experience. The touchscreen, intuitive user interface, and aesthetic design created a product that met user expectations.
Airbnb: Airbnb used Design Thinking principles to enhance the experience between hosts and guests. They continuously improved their platform by empathizing with users.
IDEO’s Social Design Projects: The design thinking firm IDEO applies the Design Thinking process to solve social issues. For example, they used Design Thinking to create a low-cost healthcare service model.
> For additional information, click here.
10. Blend The Trend
> What is this?
It’s a creative thinking and design strategy aimed at achieving new and innovative results by combining different trends, ideas, or approaches. This method is used to create unique and engaging solutions by bringing together trends from various sources or combining them with each other.
> How to use?
- Identify Trends
- Categorize Trends
- Generate Ideas for Combining Trends
- Develop Innovative Concepts
- Prototype and Test
- Implement and Market
- Gather Feedback and Improve
> For additional information, click here.
Idea Generation Workshops
In this section, you can find answers to questions like,“What are idea generation exercises?” and “What should I do to generate creative ideas?”
Enjoy your reading!
What are the idea generation exercises?
You can do
1–Playing 30 Circles!
In this exercise developed by Bob McKim to warm up before idea generation activities, you aim to create 30 different shapes within 3 minutes.
2- Playing Word Games!
Playing word games can encourage quick thinking. For example, you can play “word chain” or think about different meanings of a word.
3. Solving Sudoku!
Sudoku teaches problem-solving by employing different strategies and approaches. This skill can help you address everyday issues more effectively.
What should I do to generate creative ideas?
Take Notes:
Quickly jot down spontaneous ideas or interesting observations. Even things you might forget could later become part of a great idea. (Write with a pen.)
Be Open to Criticism:
Be open to criticism when sharing your ideas. Critiques can help you further develop your ideas.
Take Breaks:
Step away for a while when you find yourself struggling or stuck. During this break, your mind can relax, and new ideas may emerge.
Social Interactions:
Observe the social interactions people encounter in their daily lives. By understanding human behaviors and needs, you can develop new product or service ideas.
Examine Technology:
Keep up with technological advancements and consider how to apply them to different fields. New technologies can serve as the foundation for new business ideas or product concepts.
Exercise and Movement:
Engaging in physical exercise and outdoor activities can open up your mind and enhance creativity. Try activities like walking, running, or practicing yoga.
Connect Contrasting Concepts:
Think about the interaction between opposing ideas or concepts. Such conflicts can be a source of new and impactful ideas.
