SCAMPER is a creative thinking technique used in business and problem-solving to help generate new ideas or solutions by prompting you to think about various ways to modify or adapt an existing idea, product, or process. Each letter in SCAMPER represents a different way to approach the problem. Apple iPhone has continuously applied SCAMPER principles to its iPhones, modifying and improving features, combining functionalities, and adapting the product for different markets and user preferences Here are some examples of how to use SCAMPER in a business context:
S – Substitute: Replace a component or element of your product or service with something else. As like, Substitute traditional packaging materials with eco-friendly alternatives or Replace in-person meetings with virtual conferences to save time and resources.
This was proven when Tesla’s electric cars demonstrate adaptation and substitution by replacing traditional combustion engines with electric power and continuously modifying the design and technology to enhance performance.
C – Combine: Consider how you can combine different elements or ideas. For instance:
Combine two complementary products into a bundled offering.
Combine the strengths of various team members for a cross-functional project team.
The Amazon Echo smart speaker is a result of combining voice recognition technology with a music player and adapting it for home automation control.
A – Adapt: Modify your product or process to make it more suitable for a different context. For example:
Adapt a restaurant’s menu to cater to a new dietary trend, like offering vegan options.
Modify a software application for use on a different operating system.
IKEA Furniture: IKEA has applied SCAMPER by creating modular furniture designs, adapting materials to reduce costs, and eliminating unnecessary parts to make flat-pack furniture.
M – Modify: Alter the size, shape, or other attributes of a product or service:
Modify the design of a smartphone to make it more compact.
Magnify the user experience by enhancing customer support.
Nike has modified its running shoes by using advanced materials and manufacturing techniques, eliminated unnecessary weight, and magnified the cushioning and support features for better performance.
P – Put to Another Use: Think about how your product or idea can be used in a different way or for a different audience:
Repurpose industrial waste as raw materials for other products.
Offer your employee training programs to external clients for an additional revenue stream.
Airbnb has put the concept of accommodation to another use by allowing people to rent out their homes or spare rooms. They have also adapted their platform for various types of lodging.
E – Eliminate: Identify and remove elements that are unnecessary or redundant:
Eliminate a step in your manufacturing process to reduce production costs.
Remove less popular menu items to streamline a restaurant’s offerings.
R – Reverse or Rearrange: Consider reversing the order of processes or rearranging elements in a new way:
Reverse the order of a typical customer journey for a unique user experience.
Rearrange the layout of a retail store to enhance traffic flow.
SCAMPER can be a valuable tool for brainstorming and problem-solving in business. By asking these questions and encouraging creative thinking, you can uncover innovative solutions and discover new opportunities for growth and improvement.
