Want to be innovative? Think “Inside the box”
While working in the creative field it is always expected to think “Outside of the Box” Many of us might have experienced or seen comments from Bosses to “Share out of the Box Ideas” There have been many memes in the market conveying this single line doesn’t convey what is the exact requirement.
This article is going to provide you with super powerful techniques to be more creative and innovative by thinking “Inside the box”.
Yes, you read it right. You can think inside of the box and be more innovative.
It is always emphasised that artists are like free birds, to be more creative there needs to be minimal constraints but in reality, you become more creative when you take full advantage of the resources available within the set of constraints/limitations. When you do that, your solution is more likely to be a winning solution because you are utilising what you already have.
SIT systematic inventive technique A Theory developed by Prof.Jacob Goldenberg provides a structured approach to creativity and innovation. SIT is about thinking inside the box and becoming more creative by taking full advantage of the resources available within the limitations of the closed world.
In this article, we are going to explore how UX Designers can integrate this technique while creating Products or services by emphasising the significance of this synergy.
There are five Thinking tools of Systematic Inventive Technique.
1. Subtraction
2. Division
3. Multiplication
5. Task Unification
6. Attribute Dependency
UX Designers have been using the Design Thinking process to get innovative ideas to build user-centric solutions. In our Design Thinking Workshops many times we get banal ideas or sometimes to reduce the nervousness in the room we encourage the worst ideas. This process is interesting but sometimes it takes longer to come up with a constructive Solution.
Systematic Inventive technique is comparatively the quickest way to bring innovation, While using SIT in our work we may not always have the clarity of users’ needs and goals at the starting point but that can be discovered later. This approach is called as Function Follows form.
A Dive into SIT tools:
1) Subtraction:
SIT’s Subtraction method involves removing a component from a product or service to create new value.
To apply subtraction first, we need to list out components within the closed world and then to apply subtraction we need to create a virtual product or think of the product by subtracting components from the main product. We need to think what are the advantages or disadvantages if we remove a specific component from the product, At first we remove components as well as functionality. Later if we can not remove the dangling functionality completely then we think of utilizing the existing components to provide the same Functionality. After exhausting all the existing components within the closed world then we can think about replacing it with new components. This tool helps us to address fixedness and innovate by compelling us to sacrifice a desirable component in the product.
Examples:
Another Example of Subtraction can be saved addresses on an E-commerce site, Since our addresses are already saved we don’t need to type it every time we buy a new product.
2) Multiplication:
Multiplication involves replicating an existing element but with a slight variation. In UX, this could mean creating multiple versions of a design element and testing them to determine the most effective solution. A/B testing is a practical application that allows designers to iterate and refine based on user feedback.
Let’s see another example of Multiplication to understand the tool better.
Let’s see another example.
By adding a slight variation to the “Add password step” a two factor authentication step is created. the user will enter a mobile number and then using OTP the user profile will get verified.
3) Division:
Division in SIT refers to breaking an element into its components and reorganising them in a novel way. UX designers can apply this by deconstructing complex processes into simpler, more intuitive steps. By dividing the user journey into manageable stages, designers can optimize the overall experience and increase user satisfaction.
4) Task Unification:
In Task Unification, we assign a new and additional task to an existing resource. Using Task Unification is an effective way to overcome Functional Fixedness. Cultures that are poor in resources tend to adopt the Task Unification mindset easily.
For Example Task Unification can be applied to voice controlled interfaces by integrating additional tasks for functionalities beyond simple voice commands. Smart home assistants can not only respond to users voice commands to control devices but also offer personalized recommendations or reminders based on user preferences.
Example: The Walkman
5) Attribute Dependency:
The basic principle underlying this tool is creating and dissolving dependencies between variables of a product. In Attribute Dependency, we work with variables rather than components (as opposed to all other tools described earlier). A variable is something that has the potential to change values; it is easy to identify as a characteristic that can change within a product or component (e.g. color, size, material). Variables can be internal and external, internal variables are those that can be controlled by the manufacturer, while external variables are out of the manufacturer’s control. In a drinking glass, for example, the thickness of the glass is internal, while the temperature of the liquid inside is external.
Example: Colour Change in the lead of the liquid based on the temperature
Lets see Another example of the Multe/Unmute button Dilemma which was brought to the surface during the Lockdown period.
Why UX Designers Need SIT:
1. Encourages Innovation: SIT provides the fastest way for innovation, using Components available within a closed world team can feel more resourceful to bring in new ideas easily.
2. Enhances Problem-Solving: UX Design work is not only limited to designing UI interfaces our job is to enhance products and service experiences. SIT provides a systematic way to bring innovation in user journeys and products.
3. Iterative Design Improvement:UX design is an iterative process, and SIT aligns well with this philosophy. The methods support continuous improvement by allowing designers to experiment, refine, and optimize designs based on user feedback and changing requirements.
Conclusion:
In the ever-evolving landscape of UX design, embracing systematic inventive techniques can be a game-changer. By incorporating Subtraction, Division, Multiplication, and Addition into their toolbox, UX designers can navigate complexities, innovate efficiently, and create user-centric solutions. Understanding and applying SIT not only enriches the design process but also empowers designers to stay ahead in the competitive world of user experience.
References :
In the above article, I have attempted to share learnings from my former education at Emeritus University. For More Detailed information about the above topic please find the below links.
My UX project where I used SIT: https://www.behance.net/gallery/131119541/SIT-Innovation-in-BP-Management-System
Disclaimer: The author’s thoughts and remarks are his or her own and are only meant for informational and educational purposes. The conclusions or statements made in this article are the writer’s opinion. they do not constitute investment, financial, or any other advice.
