SCAMPER is a nice, clear checklist technique developed by Bob Eberle (1997) that has a firm place among creative techniques.
After a challenge has been precisely defined and described, SCAMPER quickly helps you think ahead in different directions. SCAMPER is thus also well usable as a starting point for lateral thinking processes. A further development of SCAMPER itself is SCAMPERR. The well-known Osborn checklist is also a technique closely related to SCAMPER. In contrast to this, however, it contains significantly less
SCAMPER is particularly suitable for the further development of new products or processes derived from existing ones. SCAMPER is also a good follow-up method to a brainstorming session.
In the focus on digital transformation, SCAMPER acquires a special significance, as it also supports the idea generation for three-dimensional things and processes very well. Many digital transformation challenges require rethinking simultaneous, virtual, digital, process and haptic components.
The checklist-like character facilitates the work especially with inexperienced teams. These often have a much harder time with free association methods such as brainstorming or the 6-3-5 method. Compared to the Osborn checklist, SCAMPER can also be used spontaneously without spending a lot of time.
SCAMPER consists of the elements:
- Substitute
- Combine
- Adapt
- Modify
- Put
- Eliminate
- Reverse
In the extended version SCAMMPERR are added:
- Magnify
- Rearrange
As many variants/ideas as possible are sought for each element. The element determines the direction of thinking.
Guidance for selecting the right innovation method is provided by this article: https://www.innovation.wiki/de/navigator/innovationsmethoden/
