Conceptgeneration

Conceptgeneration refers to the systematic creation of new concepts, ideas, or design directions at the early stages of problem solving. In design and product development, it aims to produce a diverse set of high-level concepts that can be evaluated and refined. The term is often used interchangeably with ideation, though some fields distinguish conceptgeneration as producing concrete concepts rather than raw ideas.

Process typically involves framing the problem, exploring user needs, and applying divergent thinking to generate many options. Common methods include brainstorming, morphological analysis, TRIZ, SCAMPER, and design thinking workshops. Emphasis is on quantity, novelty, and reframing problems, followed by evaluation to select promising concepts.

Evaluation tools may include feasibility, desirability, and viability criteria; concept scoring, concept maps, and decision matrices. Prototypes, sketches, or simulations can help communicate and test concepts, moving them toward refinement.

Applications span product and service design, software, architecture, marketing, and public policy. A robust conceptgeneration process encourages diversity, interdisciplinary collaboration, and risk-aware exploration, while balancing constraints such as time, budget, and stakeholder requirements.

Challenges include cognitive bias, groupthink, early commitment, and uneven participation. Effective practice relies on clear objectives, structured ideation, inclusive participation, and iterative feedback. Related terms include ideation, concept development, and design thinking.