3 & December 2024 (Tue & Wed)

Singapore Poly Library (Level 4)

(Book) Theory of Inventive Problem Solving (Level 1), written by Dr. Yeoh Teong San, introduces powerful tools such as Function Analysis and Cause & Effect Chain Analysis (CECA) to tackle challenges in innovative ways. The book illustrates how everyday objects serve specific functions: a bottle “holds” liquid, a cap “stops” liquid, and a book “informs” or “holds” knowledge. By understanding these functions, inventive solutions can emerge. For example, a straw “directs” liquid to the mouth during use and “separates” air inside and outside the straw beforehand.

TRIZ, or the Theory of Inventive Problem Solving, was developed by Genrich Altshuller and his colleagues between 1946 and 1985 in the former USSR. TRIZ is based on studying patterns of problems and solutions. It provides a structured and algorithmic approach, offering repeatability, predictability, and reliability. This method improves the problem-solving abilities of individuals and teams by leveraging its 40 Inventive Principles. A core TRIZ hypothesis states, “Someone, somewhere, has already solved this problem or one very similar to it. Creativity lies in finding that solution and adapting it to the current problem.”Psychological inertia often hinders innovative thinking, but specific methods like Function Analysis and CECA can help break away from it. For example, consider the innovative transformation of an iPad into a childcare product or recognize the iPhone's success as the most innovative product due to its profitability. When tools are given to employees, the blame for failure often shifts to the tools, but understanding the root cause through structured analysis is key to success.

The journey of solving inventive problems is demanding—often requiring thousands of attempts to achieve one success. This underscores the importance of tools like Function Analysis, CECA, and the Trimming process to identify and eliminate redundancies while focusing on essential functions.

As you approach problem-solving, remember these three key concepts for Day 1: Function Analysis, CECA, and the Trimming process. These principles will guide you in understanding problems deeply and crafting innovative, effective solutions.

Personal notes:

give out 3 books.

Theory of Inventive Problem Solving (Level 1)

Book by Yeoh Teong San (phD)

Function Analysis, Cause & Effect Chain Analysis,

iPad becomes childcare product