Substitute; Combine; Adapt; Modify (also Magnify and Minify); Put to another use; Eliminate; Reverse (also Rearrange)

This is an idea generation and problem-solving technique which can be used as part of a continuous improvement cycle for a process or product. Another use is for helping the innovation process by challenging the current way of doing things or of not accepting products as they are, helping to explore new opportunities for development. You address each of the terms in turn, with some examples being given below:
• Substitute: What part of the product or process can be substituted? Is it just the change of a name or term to help better understanding and reduce ambiguity? Can the shape be substituted for another?
• Combine: Can two or more features be combined to create a different approach or end product? Can different parts of a working process be combined to improve productivity?
• Adapt: Can a feature be adapted, or changed, to help solve the issue?
• Modify: Can there be a change in emphasis on some part of the process or product? Can it be modified, such as reduced application rates as part of a process, or weight of a product, to improve the situation?
• Put to another use: Can the product or process be used for another purpose? Can it be used by a wider audience, especially if an adaptation or modification is carried out?
• Eliminate: Are there any redundant features which could be eliminated? What would happen if something was removed or not carried out? Are there cost savings? What impact would this have on the quality of the product? What is the cost-benefit analysis of eliminating a feature?
• Reverse: If a feature or process element was reversed, or carried out in a different order, would this improve the situation? Can the sequence of activities be changed to achieve the same outcome?
The technique is frequently abbreviated to SCAMPER.