TRIZ (Theory of Inventive Problem Solving, author G.Altshuller) is the most developed analytical method of a non-trivial approach towards problems solving. The four fundamental concepts of TRIZ are linked to corresponding solving stages and include systemic thinking, ideality, contradictions and resources.
- SYSTEMIC THINKING – problem cleaning
- An analysis of the problem in the past, present and future; in terms of reasons, the current situation and consequences; in terms of system layers; by zooming the surrounding picture in (to find out the details) and out. Deciding on how the problem is to be formulated initially.
- IDEALITY – selecting the direction for search
- The direction of search for solutions must be towards one of the definitions of the Ideal Final Result (IFR, or “a magic stick”).
- CONTRADICTIONS – analyzing barriers
- Moving towards the IFR reveals contradictions (you must but you cannot). Methods of contradictions resolving bring us to ideas of how the problem can be solved.
- RESOURCES – searching for solutions
- Using rejects, free resources, support from neighboring systems, various additions and effects for implementation and strengthening of generated ideas. Selecting the most powerful solutions, testing for undesirable effects or too strong effects.
If you still have doubts that TRIZ is among the most developed tool-sets for problems solving, have a look what people at/around Samsung have to say on this (see picture below). And Samsung – being a global leader in TVs, screen technology, and chip design – ought to do a lot of things right in terms of managing innovative culture. TRIZ was introduced at Samsung by Russian engineers in the early 2000s and became the bedrock of innovation in the company:
