Home Blog Business What is TRIZ and How to Use it in Problem Solving?
What is TRIZ and How to Use it in Problem Solving?
There are a number of problem-solving techniques and methodologies, including brainstorming , root cause analysis , and 5 whys analysis . We covered these methods in a previous post, in which we provided you with 5 Problem Solving Strategies . While the mentioned before can be effective for problem-solving, there is a strategy that goes a step further applying logic, aided by data and research. This strategy is known as TRIZ .
What sets TRIZ apart from other methodologies of its kind is that it provides 40 principles and 76 standards which can enable you to put your problem in a box, and match a solution to resolve it.
History of TRIZ
Genrich Altshuller and his colleagues developed TRIZ. Altshuller was a science fiction author and inventor; he began to work on TRIZ in 1946. For many years TRIZ was not practiced outside the Soviet Union .
Altshuller worked at the Caspian Sea fleet from the Soviet Navy, more specifically, the Inventions Inspection department. He believed that there were “contradictions”, which occurred when improving a parameter negatively and impacted another. This, according to Altshuller, required inventive solutions. His work was briefly interrupted due to his arrest in 1950. He was sentenced to 25 years due to the letters he wrote to Stalin, top government officials, and newspapers, criticizing some decisions made by the Soviet Government. He resumed his work after he was freed in 1953, after the death of Stalin.
The first paper on TRIZ was published in 1956, and Altshuller expanded his work across the USSR till the 1980s. After the disintegration of the Soviet Union, the concept caught up in other countries, thanks to Soviet emigrants reaching other countries. In 1995, the Altshuller Institute for TRIZ Studies at Boston was established in the United States.
TRIZ has resulted in the birth of hundreds of thousands of inventions by being the base of extensive research across different fields.
What is the TRIZ Method for Problem Solving?
TRIZ is a Russian acronym for “ teoriya resheniya izobretatelskikh zadatch “, which translates in English as the “ theory of inventive problem solving “.
Altshuller lamented that while sailors had maps, the same cannot be said for inventors. Therefore, he developed a methodology that codifies creativity principles forming the basis of the invention. In other words, TRIZ offers generalized solutions for generalized problems. Consequently, they can be matched to your issue, because the problem you face has likely been faced by someone else previously. Applying the solution used back then, and adapting it to your problem, you can reach a solution.
TRIZ is widely used in design engineering, process management and the development of products. Some of the world’s most renowned companies that have used TRIZ in projects include Ford, General Electric, Samsung, LG, Intel, Kodak, Procter & Gamble, Motorola, HP Rolls-Royce..
In 2003, Samsung had 50 patents owing to TRIZ and saved $100 million the following year due to a TRIZ project.
Explanation of the TRIZ Concept by Genrich Altshuller
The video below shows Genrich Altshuller explaining the concept behind TRIZ to students.
Central Concepts of TRIZ
Let’s explore the two central concepts associated with the theory of inventive problem solving, i.e. generalizing problems and solutions & contradictions.
Generalizing Problems and Solutions
The basic concept behind TRIZ, based on research findings, implies that problems and solutions repeat themselves, they repeat across industries. These problems are contradictions that can be resolved using creative solutions. TRIZ is used for understanding these patterns of contradictions and solutions for developing new methods.
Problem Identification: Contradictions
The basic concept of TRIZ identifies contradictions as the primary issue related to a problem, and eliminating them can lead to a solution. Two categories of contradictions exist in TRIZ:
1. Technical Contradictions
Technical Contradictions occur when improving something leads to something else suffering from a negative effect.
Example 1: Processing power for a computer increases (good), but it uses hardware, making it bulkier (bad). .
Old computers were bulkier, with fewer features; however, overtime, innovation in hardware resolved this problem with smaller processors, with increased processing speed, incorporated in lightweight computers.
Example 2 : A business customizes service for its customers (good); however, the service is now suffering from delays and a long waiting time for customers (bad).
Many businesses employ many methods to resolve such contradictions, such as using AI-powered online services, portals, and shopping carts to offer customized service, with an estimated delivery time.
2. Physical Contradictions
Physical Contradictions are inherent. An object or system might have requirements that are contrary, resulting in Physical Contradictions.
Example 1: An operating system should be complex so that it can offer many features to the end user; however, it needs to be easy enough to use without many command lines.
A primary example of this is the need for command lines in most Linux based operating systems. Many Microsoft based client and server operating systems resolve this contradiction by offering an easy to use Graphical User Interface or GUI. Easy search features also aid this within the OS.
Example 2: A cupboard should be large enough to accommodate many items but not take up too much space.
There are a number of cupboards which are either detachable or can be folded to free up space. Smart cupboards for instance, provide combined solutions for storing more items in less space.
Inventive Principles and Standard Solutions
There are 40 Inventive Principles and 76 Standard Solutions of TRIZ which can be used for resolving problems.
The 40 Inventive Principles of TRIZ
The database of TRIZ has a collection of user compiled resources. This open source database consists of 40 principles. These principles provide the basis for resolving problems. These principles include the following:
Segmentation, extraction, local quality, asymmetry, combination, universality, nesting, counterweight, prior counteraction, prior action, cushion in advance, equipotentiality, inversion, spheroidality, dynamicity, partial, overdone or excessive action, moving to a new dimension, mechanical vibration, periodic action, continuity of useful action, rushing through, convert harm into benefit, feedback, mediator, self-service, copying, inexpensive short life, replacement of a mechanical system, use pneumatic or hydraulic systems, flexible film or thin membranes, use of porous materials, changing the colour, homogeneity, rejecting and regenerating parts, transforming physical or chemical states, phase transition, thermal expansion, use strong oxidisers, inert environment and composite materials.
Example: The first principle in the list, called “segmentation”, proposes breaking down objects into independent parts. This might include manufacturing an object so that it becomes easier to disassemble or use segmentation to resolve a technical issue. This might be done by using a trailer and truck instead of one large truck or by designing cubicles for an open plan office to enable easy reshuffling of the office layout according to need.
For more details, see these 40 TRIZ Principles with detailed explanations.
76 Standard Solutions of TRIZ
There are 76 Standard Solutions which were compiled by none other than Genrich Altshuller and his comrades over ten years between 1975-1985. These standard solutions are categorized in five broad categories.
1. There are 13 standard solutions for “improving the system” with little or no change.
2. There are 23 standard solutions for “improving the system” by changing the system.
3. There are 6 standard solutions for “system transitions”.
4. There are 17 standard solutions for “detection and measurement”.
5. There are 17 standard solutions for “simplification and improvement”
For more details, see these 76 Standard Solutions with examples.
Applying TRIZ for Problem Solving
If you wish to use TRIZ for problem-solving, you can use the following steps to resolve a problem.
1. Define the Problem: You can get started by defining the problem. You can assess if the issue suffers from a Physical or Technical contradiction.
2. Find the TRIZ Generalized Problem to Match your Problem: You can match the generalized problem to match your issue. Since problems are often repeating themselves across industries and sciences.
3. Find the Generalized Solution to Solve the Generalized Problem: You can match the generalized problem to a generalized solution to see how it resolved the former.
4. Use the Identified Solution to Resolve Your Problem: You can use the generalized problem and its generalized solution as an example and adapt it to your specific issue to resolve it.
How to Present a TRIZ Solution in 4 Steps
Do you want to present your TRIZ solution in the form of a PowerPoint presentation? You can use our 4 step guide mentioned below to present a TRIZ solution.
1. Present the Problem in a Single Slide: You can start by presenting a problem in the form of a single slide. This can come after an introductory slide, with the presentation title and the presenter’s name. Alternatively, you can transform the opening slide in a manner that it introduces the topic and also explains the problem. If your audience is new to TRIZ, you might need to explain the concept in a slide prior to discussing how a TRIZ solution might be suitable for it.
2. Compare a Suitable Generalized Problem with a Generalized Solution: You can create a comparison slide to compare a suitable generalized solution to a generalized problem that matches your issue. This can also be a good time to discuss the nature of the contradiction (physical or technical).
3. Explain How the Generalized Solution can be Adapted: The third slide should be focused on how the generalized solution can be adapted to your specific issue. You can use bullet points to discuss the basic elements of the generalized solution’s adaptability for your specific issue. Depending upon the nature of the problem, you can focus on the solution using 1-3 slides.
4. Add a Summary to Conclude the Presentation: You should summarize your TRIZ solution in the form of a closing slide. This should be brief, with a general explanation of the topic, with ideally some focus on the solution.
Using the 4 step guide above, you can present a TRIZ solution within just 4-8 slides.
Final Words
The theory of inventive problem solving can help resolve a wide range of problems across a variety of fields. Using TRIZ can be a bit complex for people who might not have a scientific background of some sort; however, looking at some of the basic principles alone can help anyone benefit from TRIZ. It isn’t necessary that everyone uses TRIZ on their own. For example, a project or marketing manager can send recommendations to a relevant department to request engineers and designers to look at the possibility of incorporating features that can help reduce project costs or improve a product’s marketability.
The 40 TRIZ Principles alone are enough to provide a range of ideas even to newbies to look for a possible solution to a ‘contradiction’ they may be dealing with. Be it segmentation, extraction, changing the colour, homogeneity or self-service, inexpensive short life or replacement of a mechanical system. Even behind complex TRIZ principles, the simple ideas have ideas that can be used for resolving problems with creative solutions.
1. Problem Solving PPDAC Diagram PowerPoint Template
The PPDAC diagram template provides an intuitive way to reach towards a solution with it’s unique approach to 5 keywords. Begin with the problem, create a plan, use the data, create an analysis, and finally draft a conclusion.
Use This Template
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Brainstorming, Ideas, Innovation Strategy, Problem Solving, Root Cause Analysis Filed under Business
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How to Use TRIZ in the Problem-Solving Process
As we attempt to solve the problems and find creative solutions for them, we take different routes throughout the problem-solving process, such as applying the Double Diamond design thinking, brainstorming sessions, root cause analysis, and other models that help us to observe, build insight, and evaluate the situation from different perspectives giving the advantages and disadvantages in each model. The problem-solving process requires utilising various tools to identify the root cause of the problem and the potential solutions to build a course of action to be used in the implementation plan, such as the TRIZ method that can be used to solve complex problems based on the consensus of a decision-making team (check the 8D Problem Solving ).
To get the most out of this article, you must download our free TRIZ Problem Solving template (in Excel Spreadsheet format) that includes the principles and contradictions required to follow the steps highlighted later in the article.
What is the TRIZ method?
The TRIZ method is a methodology for the problem-solving process developed by Genrich Altshuller, a Russian engineer and inventor, in the mid-20th century. The acronym, TRIZ, stands for “Teo”iya Resheniya Izobreta”elskikh Zadach”, which translates t” “Theory of Inventive Problem Solving” in English.
The TRIZ method is based on the idea that there are universal principles of innovation and problem-solving that can be applied to any field or industry. It provides a systematic approach to analyzing and solving problems by identifying contradictions and finding innovative solutions. It has been used successfully in the problem-solving process in many fields, including engineering, design, manufacturing, and business, to help solve complex problems (check The Six Systems Thinking Steps to Solve Complex Problems ) and generate new ideas and possible solutions. However, from the creative thinking and design perspective, many see the tool as hinder to creativity rather than a driver of creative problem-solving. While this claim is correct if we saw the tool solely from the perspective of its mechanism, it can be a good tool for collaboration and seeing problems from different viewpoints that can be used to feed into developing different potential solutions and prototypes to be tested to reach the best solution.
The problem-solving process using TRIZmethod is based on two aim principles:
1) The principle that somebody, sometime, somewhere, has already solved our problems or one similar to it, and creativity means finding that solution and aligning it to the current problem
2) We shouldn’t accept contradictions. You should resolve them.
TRIZ Method Principles
Before moving forward with the steps of the problem-solving process using the TRIZ method, we need to have a clear understanding of the different principles underpinning the method practice:
1) The 40 TRIZ principles are the models used to solve problems. For example, the second principle, “Taking out”, refers to separating the part of the system that causes the contradiction from the rest. The noisy air conditioner compressors are removed from the interior part of the building and added outside to reduce the noise inside.
2) The primary function is the main purpose of the invention. For example, the car’s primary function is transportation, and other functions are considered secondary functions, such as comfort and protection.
3) Ideality and harm . Ideality refers to the optimal or ideal state of the invention without any contradictions. This is usually an imaginary state that problem-solving aims to fix, such as the end goal or the best options. On the other hand, the harm relates to the contradictions or any obstacles that stand as a barrier to achieving the primary function.
4) TRIZ contradictions are 39 problems that must be addressed through the TRIZ principles. In the problems’ symptoms, it often occurs that part of the solution achieves one function but also causes harm. For example, the stronger air conditioner compressor cools (function) a larger space but also causes a louder noise (harm). The TRIZ contradiction is organized in a Contradiction Matrix, which arranges the conflict or Undesirable Results in a horizontal row and the Features to Changes that can be applied to change the vertical column. Matching both the Undesirable Results and the Feature to Change suggests the TRIZ method or group methods to solve the problem, as shown in the example below.
TRIZ Problems-Solving Example
In this practical example, we will use the TRIZ template (in Excel Spreadsheet format) to solve the problem of noisy air conditioners. The primary function of the air conditioner is to cool the interior space. However, cooling the whole space requires a strong compressor which produces a high amount of noise, which is known as harm. TRIZ aims to reach the ideal state where the noise of the compressor is not heard inside the room. Accordingly, we will follow the steps below:
Step 1: Find the contradictions
Open the TRIZ template first sheet (Contradiction Matrix). Based on the TRIZ Contradiction Matrix. The noisy compressor meets with the Undesired Result number 31, Object-generated Harmful Factors. In the Features to Change column, we noticed that changing the Device Complexity, item number 36, is relative to the problem we need to address.
Step 2: Find the TRIZ method
Move to the intersection between the selected Undesired Result row and the Features to Change column. The result aims to TRIZ methods number 1 and 19 (as shown in Figure 2 above) to try and provide a solution for the problem. Open the second sheet (40 Principles) in the TRIZ template. Those principles present the following (see Figure 3):
(1) Segmentation
This principle refers to dividing an object into separate parts, such as replacing a large truck with a truck and trailer. Also, in the project management application, the project is divided into smaller modules that can be assigned to different team members in parallel to save the project time.
(19) Periodic Action
This principle refers to converting continuous action to a periodic number of steps. For example, the waiting yellow light in cars— the steady alert light is replaced with a flashing light to save energy and to attract other car services to see it.
Step 3: Select the TRIZ principle
Based on the above example, the Segmentation principle may fit to solve the noisy compressor problem. After finding an applicable principal, the TRIZ expert can suggest dividing the conditioners into the central air conditioner’s indoor parts and placing the noisy unit outside the building to eliminate the harm.
Step 4: Evaluation and Refinement of the potential solution
Once the potential solution is determined, we evaluate it based o a number of criteria, such as feasibility, effectiveness, and efficiency. Once the solution is evaluated against these criteria, we move to refining it based on the given feedback and testing process.
Step 5: Results Evaluation and Testing
The application of the resulting solution is not the end of the road, as continuous testing and evaluation is required to improve the new solutions, which can be introduced as improved products or even new products or services.
Pros and Cons of the Problem-Solving Process Using TRIZ
Applying the TRIZ method can be seen as an opportunity or obstacle to idea generation, especially with the team lacking problem-solving skills. But, there are some advantages of applying the TRIZ method, such as:
- Systematic approach: TRIZ provides a structured, systematic approach to problem-solving, which helps to ensure that all possible solutions are explored.
- Innovative thinking: TRIZ encourages innovative thinking by providing a framework for thinking about problems in new and creative ways.
- Increased efficiency: TRIZ can help to increase efficiency by reducing the time and resources needed to solve problems.
- Focus on underlying principles: TRIZ emphasizes the importance of understanding the underlying principles of a problem rather than just addressing the symptoms.
- Cross-disciplinary applicability: TRIZ can be applied across different fields and disciplines, making it a versatile problem-solving methodology.
On the other hand, you may notice that its application has the following hinders:
- Complexity: TRIZ can be complex, and it may take time to learn and apply effectively.
- Lack of flexibility: TRIZ can be rigid in its approach, and it may not be suitable for all types of problems.
- Limited creativity: While TRIZ can help to stimulate innovative thinking, it may also limit creativity by forcing solutions into a predefined framework.
- Language barriers: TRIZ was developed in the former Soviet Union and may be more difficult to apply in languages other than Russian.
- Limited empirical support: Despite its widespread use, there is limited empirical evidence to support the effectiveness of TRIZ.
Exploring more about the TRIZ method as one of the problem-solving techniques can help investigate problems and propose potential solutions. You can learn more about the TRIZ method using the following:
And Suddenly, the Inventor Appeared: TRIZ, the Theory of Inventive Problem Solving: The book is written by Genrich Altshuller, the founder of TRIZ. The book introduces the TRIZ methodology and how it can be used to solve technical problems and generate innovative ideas.
40 Principles: TRIZ Keys to Innovation: The book focuses on the 40 principles of TRIZ and how they can be applied to solve technical problems and generate innovative ideas.
TRIZ For Dummies: The book introduces TRIZ for beginners and aims to help readers understand the basics of TRIZ and how it can be used to solve problems and generate innovative ideas.
The TRIZ provides a quick, reliable and efficient method for many resources to achieve innovation through finding innovative solutions for problems. This method is used in engineering, project management, critical thinking, and education. While there are many resources that can guide you through how to use this tool, it requires practice and experience to use it efficiently. The proficient deployment of the TRIZ method can dramatically improve your product, service, or business.
Note: This article was first published in May 2016
TRIZ (Theory of Inventive Problem Solving) is a problem-solving methodology that uses a systematic approach to generate innovative solutions. The TRIZ problem-solving process involves the following steps: 1. Define the problem: Clearly define the problem you are trying to solve through root-cause analysis. 2. Analyze the problem: Analyze the problem using TRIZ tools and techniques through understanding the contradictions and their link to TRIZ 40 principles, which helps to conceptualise the problem. 3. Identify the ideal solution: Use the ideality concept to identify the ideal solution through 40 principles to help identify the potential solution. 4. Generate potential solutions: Use TRIZ principles to identify the potential solution for the problem. 5. Evaluation and Refinement of the potential solution: The potential solution is evaluated based o a number of criteria such as feasibility, effectiveness, and efficiency. Once the solution is evaluated against these criteria, we move to refine it based on the given feedback and testing process. 6. Results Evaluation and Testing: The application of the resulting solution is not the end of the road as you continue testing and evaluation.
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Dr Rafiq Elmansy
As an academic and author, I've had the privilege of shaping the design landscape. I teach design at the University of Leeds and am the Programme Leader for the MA Design, focusing on design thinking, design for health, and behavioural design. I've developed and taught several innovative programmes at Wrexham Glyndwr University, Northumbria University, and The American University in Cairo. I'm also a published book author and the proud founder of Designorate.com, a platform that has been instrumental in fostering design innovation. My expertise in design has been recognised by prestigious organizations. I'm a fellow of the Higher Education Academy (HEA), the Design Research Society (FDRS), and an Adobe Education Leader. Over the course of 20 years, I've had the privilege of working with esteemed clients such as the UN, World Bank, Adobe, and Schneider, contributing to their design strategies. For more than 12 years, I collaborated closely with the Adobe team, playing a key role in the development of many Adobe applications.
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A Powerful Methodology for Creative Problem Solving
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Feeding your problem into TRIZ could reveal numerous solutions.
Projects don't always run smoothly. Even with all the analysis and data you need at your fingertips, sometimes you just can't see a way forward. At times like these, you need to develop creative solutions to the problems you face.
Chances are you already know about brainstorming , which can help with this sort of situation. But brainstorming depends on intuition and the existing knowledge of team members, and its results are often unpredictable and unrepeatable.
TRIZ, however, is a problem-solving philosophy based on logic, data and research, rather than on intuition.
It draws on the past knowledge and ingenuity of thousands of engineers to speed up creative problem solving for project teams. Its approach brings repeatability, predictability and reliability to the problem-solving process and delivers a set of dependable tools.
This article walks you through the essentials of TRIZ.
What is TRIZ?
TRIZ is the Russian acronym for the "Theory of Inventive Problem Solving," an international system of creativity developed in the U.S.S.R. between 1946 and 1985, by engineer and scientist Genrich S. Altshuller and his colleagues.
According to TRIZ, universal principles of creativity form the basis of innovation. TRIZ identifies and codifies these principles, and uses them to make the creative process more predictable.
In other words, whatever problem you're facing, somebody, somewhere, has already solved it (or one very like it). Creative problem solving involves finding that solution and adapting it to your problem.
TRIZ is most useful in roles such as product development, design engineering, and process management. For example, Six Sigma quality improvement processes often make use of TRIZ.
The Key TRIZ Tools
Let's look at two of the central concepts behind TRIZ: generalizing problems and solutions, and eliminating contradictions.
1. Generalizing Problems and Solutions
The primary findings of TRIZ research are as follows:
- Problems and solutions are repeated across industries and sciences. By representing a problem as a "contradiction" (we explore this later in this article), you can predict creative solutions to that problem.
- Patterns of technical evolution tend to repeat themselves across industries and sciences.
- Creative innovations often use scientific effects outside the field where they were developed.
Using TRIZ consists of learning these repeating patterns of problem and solution, understanding the contradictions present in a situation, and developing new methods of using scientific effects.
You then apply the general TRIZ patterns to the specific situation that confronts you, and discover a generalized version of the problem.
Figure 1, below, illustrates this process.
Figure 1 – The TRIZ Problem-Solving Method
Here, you take the specific problem that you face and generalize it to one of the TRIZ general problems. From the TRIZ general problems, you identify the general TRIZ solution you need, and then consider how you can apply it to your specific problem.
The TRIZ databases are actually a collection of "open source" resources compiled by users and aficionados of the system (such as the 40 Principles and 76 Standard Solutions, which we look at, below).
2. Eliminating Contradictions
Another fundamental TRIZ concept is that there are fundamental contradictions at the root of most problems. In many cases, a reliable way to solve a problem is to eliminate these contradictions.
TRIZ recognizes two categories of contradictions:
Technical contradictions. These are classical engineering "trade-offs," where you can't reach the desired state because something else in the system prevents it. In other words, when something gets better, something else automatically gets worse. For example:
- The product gets stronger (good), but the weight increases (bad).
- Service is customized to each customer (good), but the service delivery system gets complicated (bad).
- Training is comprehensive (good), but it keeps employees away from their assignments (bad).
The key technical contradictions are summarized in the TRIZ Contradiction Matrix . As with all TRIZ resources, it takes time and study to become familiar with the Contradiction Matrix.
Physical (or "inherent") contradictions. These are situations in which an object or system suffers contradictory, opposite requirements. Everyday examples include:
- Software should be complex (to have many features), but simple (to be easy to learn).
- Coffee should be hot (to be enjoyed), but cool (to avoid burning the drinker).
- An umbrella should be large (to keep the rain off), but small (to be maneuverable in a crowd).
You can solve physical contradictions with the TRIZ Separation Principles . These separate your requirements according to basic categories of Space, Time and Scale.
How to Use TRIZ Principles – an Example
Begin to explore TRIZ by applying it to a simple, practical problem.
For example, consider the specific problem of a furniture store in a small building. The store wants to attract customers, so it needs to have its goods on display. But it also needs to have enough storage space to keep a range of products ready for sale.
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Using TRIZ, you can establish that the store has a physical contradiction. The furniture needs to be large (to be useful and attractive), but also small (to be stored in as little space as possible). Using TRIZ, the store owners generalize this contradiction into a general problem and apply one of the 40 Principles of Problem Solving – a key TRIZ technique – to it.
They find a viable general solution in Principle 1 – Segmentation. This advocates dividing an object or system into different parts, or making it easy to take apart. This could lead the owners to devise flat-pack versions of their furniture, so that display models can take up the room that they need while inventory occupies much less space per unit. This is the specific solution.
You, too, can use the 40 Principles of Problem Solving, or the 40 Inventive Principles, and the Contradiction Matrix to help you with your problem-solving.
Five Top TRIZ Concepts and Techniques
TRIZ comes with a range of ideas and techniques beyond the basic principles outlined above. Some are conceptual and analytical, such as:
- The Law of Ideality. This states that any system tends to become more reliable throughout its life, through regular improvement.
- Functional Modeling, Analysis and Trimming. TRIZ uses these methods to define problems.
- Locating the Zones of Conflict. (This is known to Six Sigma problem-solvers as " Root Cause Analysis .")
Some are more prescriptive. For example:
- The Laws of Technical Evolution and Technology Forecasting . These categorize technical evolution by demand, function and system.
- The 76 Standard Solutions . These are specific solutions devised to a range of common problems in design and innovation.
You can use one such tool or many to solve a problem, depending on its nature.
TRIZ is a system of creative problem solving, commonly used in engineering and process management. It follows four basic steps:
- Define your specific problem.
- Find the TRIZ generalized problem that matches it.
- Find the generalized solution that solves the generalized problem.
- Adapt the generalized solution to solve your specific problem.
Most problems stem from technical or physical contradictions. Apply one of hundreds of TRIZ principles and laws to eliminate these contradictions, and you can solve the problem.
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Comments (5)
- Over a month ago BillT wrote Hi 40 Inventive Principles, and Welcome to the Club! Thank you for letting us know about the broken links on the page. Occasionally site owners move or remove pages from their sites. I will forward this to our Editing team to verify the links to see if they can be updated. We hope to see you in the Forums. BillT Mind Tools Team
- Over a month ago RTCL01 wrote Hello, many of your links are no longer working......I have recently subscribed but it looks like the material is not refreshed that often ?
- Over a month ago BillT wrote Hi ucheoma, Thank you for your question. As suggested in the article, try to think of a problem that needs to be solved. Then, using the matrix, identify the appropriate Principle and Solution. I did a quick Google search for TRIZ 40 Principles and found lots of great resources.
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