Liberating Structure: Triz

How can this help YOU!

Triz (which stands for “Theory of Inventive Problem Solving”) is a method for creative problem solving developed by Genrich Altshuller and his colleagues in the Soviet Union during the 1940s. Triz can be used to systematically identify and overcome obstacles in order to improve a product or process.

One way to use Triz is to start by defining the problem clearly, and then using the 40 principles of Triz to analyze the problem and identify potential solutions. Some key elements of Triz include the following:

1. Identifying the conflicting parameters that are causing the problem.
2. Identifying the root causes of the problem.
3. Analyzing the problem using the 40 Triz principles.
4. Generating a range of possible solutions to the problem.
5. Evaluating the potential solutions and selecting the best one.
6. Implementing the solution and monitoring its effectiveness.

Another way to use Triz is the “liberating structure” method, which is a set of 15 facilitator-led methods that can be used to organize groups and facilitate innovation and problem-solving in a variety of settings. Each liberating structure is designed to help groups address a specific type of challenge or opportunity.

It is essential to have a facilitator who has been trained in the use of Triz and the liberating structure method to lead the session.

What are the 40 Triz principles

These principles are based on a study of over 40,000 patents and are intended to help individuals and organizations overcome obstacles and improve products and processes. The 40 principles are grouped into nine categories:

1. Segmentation: breaking down a complex system into smaller parts.
2. Ideal final result: envisioning the perfect solution to a problem.
3. Contradiction: identifying and resolving conflicts in a system.
4. Resources: using existing resources in new ways.
5. Dynamics: using motion and change to solve problems.
6. Pneumatics and hydraulics: using fluid systems to solve problems.
7. Mechanics: using mechanical systems to solve problems.
8. Thermal and chemical effects: using heat and chemicals to solve problems.
9. Electro-magnetic effects: using electricity and magnetism to solve problems.

It is important to note that these principles are not a recipe for problem-solving, but rather a set of guidelines to be applied in a flexible and creative way, depending on the specific problem at hand. Also, it is crucial to have a facilitator who has been trained in the use of Triz, to lead the session and guide the application of these principles.

The 15 Liberating Structures

The 15 facilitator-led methods, also known as the “liberating structures,” are a set of methods that can be used to organize groups and facilitate innovation and problem-solving in a variety of settings. These structures were developed by Henri Lipmanowicz and Keith McCandless as a way to make it easier for anyone to lead effective meetings and conversations, regardless of their level of expertise. Each liberating structure is designed to help groups address a specific type of challenge or opportunity. Here are some examples of the 15 facilitator-led methods:

1. 1-2-4-All: A method for getting a large group to quickly generate a wide variety of ideas.
2. Impromptu Networking: A way to help people in a group get to know one another and build connections.
3. Nine Whys: A method for getting to the root cause of a problem by repeatedly asking “why” a certain issue is occurring.
4. 15% Solutions: A way to quickly generate and implement small changes that can have a big impact.
5. Appreciative Interviews: A method for gathering information about what is working well in a system and how to replicate it.
6. Social Network Mapping: A way to map out the relationships and connections within a group.
7. Triz: A method for solving problems using the 40 principles of Triz.
8. Troika Consulting: A way to involve three people in a problem-solving session.
9. What, So What, Now What: A method for making sense of complex information and determining what to do next.
10. Mini-Debrief: A quick and easy way to review and learn from an experience.
11. Microstructures: A set of small, easy-to-use methods for addressing a wide range of challenges.
12. World Cafe: A method for hosting large group conversations on important topics.
13. Open Space Technology: A way to organize an unstructured, self-organizing meeting or event.
14. Circle of Questions: A way to gather and share information in a group setting.
15. Innovation Tournament: A way to organize a competition to identify and develop the best new ideas.

It is important to note that these methods are not a one-size-fits-all solution, but rather a set of tools that can be used in a flexible and creative way, depending on the specific challenge or opportunity at hand. Also, it is crucial to have a facilitator who has been trained in the use of the liberating structures to lead the session.