SCAMPER is a creative thinking and innovation technique that helps individuals and teams generate new ideas and solutions by prompting them to think about existing products, services, or processes in different ways. The acronym SCAMPER stands for:

• Substitute
• Combine
• Adapt
• Modify (also Magnify or Minify)
• Put to another use
• Eliminate
• Rearrange (also Reverse)

Each letter represents a different approach to thinking about and transforming an idea or problem.

• Definition: Replace one part of the product, service, or process with another to see if it improves the outcome.
• Questions to Ask:
  • What materials or resources can be substituted?
  • Can we change the rules or processes?
  • Can we use other ingredients or components?
• Example: Using a different material for packaging to make it more eco-friendly.

• Definition: Merge two or more elements of the product, service, or process to create something new.
• Questions to Ask:
  • What ideas, materials, or processes can be combined?
  • Can we integrate different technologies?
  • Can we combine resources to create a new product?
• Example: Combining a smartphone with a camera to create a smartphone with advanced photography features.

• Definition: Adjust or tweak the product, service, or process to better suit a new purpose or context.
• Questions to Ask:
  • How can we adapt this product for a different market?
  • What other uses could this product have?
  • Can we change the design to make it more user-friendly?
• Example: Adapting a children's toy to be used as a therapeutic tool for children with special needs.

• Definition: Change the size, shape, or other attributes of the product, service, or process.
• Questions to Ask:
  • What can be magnified or made larger?
  • What can be minimized or made smaller?
  • Can we change the color, shape, or other features?
• Example: Creating a smaller, portable version of a kitchen appliance.

• Definition: Use the product, service, or process for a different purpose than originally intended.
• Questions to Ask:
  • What other uses can this product have?
  • Can we repurpose this product for a different industry?
  • How else can this process be applied?
• Example: Using a shipping container as a modular home.

• Definition: Remove parts of the product, service, or process that are unnecessary or redundant.
• Questions to Ask:
  • What can be removed without affecting the functionality?
  • Can we simplify the process?
  • What steps are not adding value?
• Example: Removing unnecessary features from a software application to make it more user-friendly.

• Definition: Change the order or sequence of the product, service, or process.
• Questions to Ask:
  • Can we rearrange the steps in the process?
  • What if we did it in reverse?
  • Can we change the layout or structure?
• Example: Rearranging the layout of a retail store to improve customer flow and sales.

Objective: Use the SCAMPER technique to generate innovative ideas for improving a common object, such as a coffee mug.

Instructions:

1. Substitute: Think about what materials or components of the coffee mug can be substituted. For example, replacing ceramic with stainless steel.
2. Combine: Consider combining the coffee mug with another product. For example, integrating a built-in coaster or a temperature control feature.
3. Adapt: Adapt the coffee mug for a different use. For example, designing it to be used as a storage container when not in use.
4. Modify: Modify the size or shape of the coffee mug. For example, creating a collapsible mug for easy storage.
5. Put to Another Use: Think of other uses for the coffee mug. For example, using it as a planter for small plants.
6. Eliminate: Eliminate unnecessary features. For example, removing the handle to create a sleek, minimalist design.
7. Rearrange: Rearrange the components of the coffee mug. For example, changing the position of the handle for better ergonomics.

Solution Example:

• Substitute: Replace ceramic with stainless steel for better insulation.
• Combine: Add a built-in coaster that can be detached and used separately.
• Adapt: Design the mug to be used as a storage container for small office supplies.
• Modify: Create a collapsible version for easy storage and portability.
• Put to Another Use: Use the mug as a planter for small succulents.
• Eliminate: Remove the handle to create a sleek, minimalist design.
• Rearrange: Change the position of the handle to the side for better grip.

The SCAMPER technique is a powerful tool for fostering innovative thinking and generating creative solutions. By systematically applying each component of SCAMPER, individuals and teams can explore new possibilities and improve existing products, services, or processes. Practice using SCAMPER regularly to enhance your ability to think creatively and innovate effectively.