Theory of Inventive Problem Solving

TRIZ

TRIZ principles help solve technical and innovation problems by applying patterns discovered through patent analysis.

In one sentence

“Find innovative solutions to technical problems”

Quick facts

Time required

5–10 minutes

Primary benefit

Systematic Innovation

Techniques

9 individual techniques

The core mechanism.

TRIZ principles help solve technical and innovation problems by applying patterns discovered through patent analysis.

The science

Where it came from.

TRIZ was developed by Genrich Altshuller, a Soviet engineer, who analyzed thousands of patents to discover patterns of innovation. He found that most technical problems have already been solved in some industry, and innovative solutions often involve resolving contradictions. TRIZ provides a systematic approach to innovation by identifying these contradictions and applying proven solution patterns.

Techniques

9 techniques, each ready to use.

Each technique is a distinct prompt or operation. Apply them one at a time or combine several for deeper exploration.

Segmentation

Divide an object into independent parts

Break a problem or system into separate, independent parts. Consider how you might divide your current challenge into smaller components that can be solved separately.

Taking Out

Extract the disturbing part

Separate an interfering part or property from an object, or single out the only necessary part of an object. What element could you remove from your current challenge to simplify it?

Local Quality

Change structure from uniform to non-uniform

Change an object's structure from uniform to non-uniform, change an external environment from uniform to non-uniform, or make each part of an object function in conditions most suitable for its operation.

Asymmetry

Change from symmetrical to asymmetrical

Change the shape or properties of an object from symmetrical to asymmetrical. Where could introducing asymmetry solve your current problem?

Merging

Bring closer together or merge

Bring closer together (or merge) identical or similar objects, assemble identical or similar parts to perform parallel operations. What elements could be combined in your current challenge?

Universality

Make a part perform multiple functions

Make a part or object perform multiple functions; eliminate the need for other parts. How could elements in your challenge serve multiple purposes?

Nesting

Place one object inside another

Place one object inside another; place multiple objects inside others. How might a nested structure solve your current problem?

Prior Counteraction

Preload countermeasures

If it will be necessary to perform an action with both harmful and useful effects, this action should be replaced with anti-actions to control harmful effects. What preventative measures could you take?

Prior Action

Perform required changes in advance

Perform, before it is needed, the required change to an object. Pre-arrange objects such that they can come into action from the most convenient place. What could you prepare in advance?

Best practices

How to apply it effectively.

Use this pack when facing technical problems or when you need to generate innovative solutions. Begin by clearly defining your problem, then randomly draw TRIZ principles to see how they might apply. Consider how each principle could transform your approach, even if the connection isn't immediately obvious. For best results, combine multiple principles and be open to unexpected directions.

Best use cases

When to reach for this.

When facing a technical contradiction that seems unsolvable
When you need to innovate in engineering or product design
When conventional brainstorming has stalled
When you want a structured, patent-backed approach to innovation

Other strategies in this category

Keep exploring.

Back to all categories