- Scamper is a method for generating ideas that does not necessitate extensive preparation
- It is also a list of verbs that are related to your problem and help you come up with solutions.
- SCAMPER stands for Substitute, Combine, Adapt, Modify, Put to other use, Eliminate and Rearrange.
Scamper
When looking at process improvement there are questions to think about
Expert's Comment
- I have used SCAMPER to save millions of dollars. It's a simple and powerful tool and the most effective way of using SCAMPER.Tips to effectively use SCAMPER
- SCAMPER is a mind-stimulating technique; it stimulates the participants to think and come out with new ideas to solve the problem
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Asking the right question and making participants think it is the key for the majority of
the situations (please consult your Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt)
1. My first and favorite question has always been, "Can we eliminate" E part of SCAMPER. If we can eliminate the activity which is giving the problem, we definitely save time & improve productivity?
2. If we cannot Eliminate it, then the next question would be, "can we Combine?" If we can combine one activity with another, the non-value-added activity spent between both the activities is minimized or eliminated,leading to positive results
3.If we can do E & C, then can we substitute? the next best option is when we substitute one process with another when we substitute one with the other, it is obvious that we would end up substitutingwhich is the better one. - The rest of the questions can be on a need basis.