Why TRIZ Can Push Pharmaceutical and Chemical Innovations
TRIZ, the Theory of Inventive Problem Solving, is a toolbox which is used predominantly in the engineering field. It provides a collection of methods for problem analysis, problem solving and concept creation. Especially for technology-based innovations it is very strong as it enhances the space for solutions and enables extraordinary ideas. It is often associated with classical engineering activities although it works industry-independend.
When TRIZ was created, the originator Genrich Altschuler and his team studies thousands of patents and extracted their solution principles, which can help to identify new ideas. In later years, additional methods were developed. Today, there are more than 50 different methods for different purposes available.
Research and development in the pharmaceutical and chemical industry is high-tech science. The knowledge and experience of scientists combined with modern lab and IT infrastructure enables many opportunities. Chemists, biochemists, biologists and bioinformatics have specific knowledge in their fields. My (personal) observation is that the working mode is still dominated by trial-and-error approaches when solving problems. This means e.g. adding more substance, change temperature, etc.
Adding a structured problem-solving process can help to shorten development times, reduce time-to-market and increase the impact of R&D by more powerful innovations. Examples:
- IP generation: for most companies in the industry, the generation of IP is critical. TRIZ can help to generate patentable ideas and concepts in a short period of time and even to circumvent patents. In some cases, it was possible to provide structured ideation sessions with proven outcome in 1 hour (!).
- Problem solving: There are several tools (Function Analysis, ARIZ, contradictions, etc.) for speeding up the problem-solving process. Most people have difficulties in formulating problems correctly. This blocks the clear understanding of the source and the development of adequate solutions. The mentioned tools provide a clear understanding and enable creative strategies to solve them.
- Cost saving: in some situations, it is advisable to reduce product or process. With procedures like "Trimming" there are powerful ways to improve the cost situation even in products or processes that have already been subject to optimizations in the past multiple times.
- Portfolio management: Portfolio decisions are very often dominated by political decisions or are founded on past experiences. The use of the Trends of Technology Evolution as a fact-based trend prediction tool is enable a higher rate of success of R&D and innovation portfolios.
The competitive situation, the increased need for innovative products and the cost pressure can be tackled with methods like TRIZ. As methods like Design thinking have revolutionized the innovation of user frontends, TRIZ can support the innovations on a molecular or technical level.
More information:
TRIZ innovation projects in Pharma, Chemicals and Medtech
Cost savings in Pharma, Chemicals and MedTech
Strategy in Pharma, Chemicals and Medtech
The author Stefan Schaper has worked over 20 years in the industry for companies like Fresenius, Bayer and Roche. He now acts as a consultant.