How can you use the TRIZ method to solve problems creatively?

1 Identify the problem

The first step of the TRIZ method is to identify the problem you want to solve. You need to define it clearly and precisely, and avoid vague or general statements. You also need to identify the root cause of the problem, not just the symptoms or effects. You can use tools such as the 5 Whys, the Fishbone Diagram, or the Pareto Chart to help you with this step.

2 Formulate the contradiction

The second step of the TRIZ method is to formulate the contradiction that lies at the heart of the problem. A contradiction is a situation where you want to improve one aspect of a system, but doing so worsens another aspect. For example, you want to increase the speed of your work, but doing so reduces the quality. You can use the TRIZ Matrix, which is a table that lists 39 engineering parameters and 40 inventive principles, to help you find the best way to resolve the contradiction.

3 Generate solutions

The third step of the TRIZ method is to generate solutions based on the inventive principles that you identified in the previous step. The inventive principles are general guidelines that can help you overcome the trade-offs and constraints that limit your creativity. For example, some of the inventive principles are segmentation, asymmetry, nesting, feedback, and self-service. You can use tools such as brainstorming, mind mapping, or SCAMPER to help you generate as many ideas as possible.

4 Evaluate and select solutions

The fourth step of the TRIZ method is to evaluate and select the best solutions for your problem. You need to consider the feasibility, effectiveness, and desirability of each solution, and compare them against your criteria and goals. You can use tools such as SWOT analysis, cost-benefit analysis, or decision matrix to help you with this step.

5 Implement and test solutions

The fifth step of the TRIZ method is to implement and test the solutions that you selected in the previous step. You need to plan and execute the actions that are required to make the solutions work, and monitor and measure the results and impacts. You can use tools such as Gantt chart, PDCA cycle, or SMART goals to help you with this step.

6 Learn and improve

The sixth and final step of the TRIZ method is to learn and improve from the experience of solving the problem. You need to reflect on what worked and what didn't, and identify the lessons and best practices that you can apply to future problems. You can use tools such as after-action review, feedback survey, or post-mortem analysis to help you with this step.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?