scamper

SCAMPER is a creative thinking technique used to generate ideas and improvements by systematically applying a set of prompts to an existing product, service, process, or problem. The acronym stands for Substitute, Combine, Adapt, Modify, Put to another use, Eliminate, and Rearrange (sometimes given as Reverse). By exploring these categories, individuals or teams can produce new concepts and alternatives that might not emerge through traditional brainstorming alone.

The method is a structured approach to ideation and is commonly attributed to Bob Eberle, an educator who popularized the technique in the mid-20th century. It is widely used in design thinking, product development, education, and innovation projects. The typical workflow involves defining a goal, selecting a starting point, and then generating ideas by applying each SCAMPER category. Collected ideas can be organized, evaluated, and piloted as part of a broader development process.

Applications and variations: SCAMPER is employed to spark product enhancements, service innovations, process improvements, and teaching strategies. Variations may substitute Rearrange with Reverse, or expand Modify into sub-prompts such as Magnify and Minify. The technique is often used in combination with other creativity methods and typically benefits from a facilitator to maintain focus and drive outcomes.

Strengths and limitations: The structured prompts help break habitual thinking and encourage diverse ideas, especially in groups or educational settings. Effectiveness depends on a clear objective, relevant domain knowledge, and active participation; without these, results may be superficial or impractical.