Remote Focused

S.c.a.m.p.e.r.

SCAMPER is a structured creative thinking technique. It uses seven prompts to modify existing ideas and generate new solutions. Each letter offers a different lens to transform concepts.

Duration
1 hour
Group Size
4-12
Category
Remote Focused
Difficulty
Easy
Participants will generate diverse solutions by examining problems from multiple angles. They will break creative blocks using structured prompts. They will transform existing ideas into innovative solutions. They will encourage lateral thinking.

  • SCAMPER-generated ideas

  • Systematic creativity

  • Expanded solution space

Time-box each letter to 5-7 minutes to maintain momentum. A mind map structure works well. Put the main concept in the center and lines pointing to each SCAMPER section. This technique is effective when teams feel stuck or need a fresh perspective.
Here's how to run the exercise:

  1. Teams work through each letter of the SCAMPER acronym systematically.

  2. Substitute: What can we swap?

  3. Combine: What can we merge?

  4. Adapt: How can we adjust for different contexts?

  5. Modify/Magnify: What can we emphasize or minimize?

  6. Put to Another Use: What else could this do?

  7. Eliminate: What can we remove?

  8. Reverse/Rearrange: What can we flip or reorder?

  9. For each prompt, participants generate ideas on sticky notes. This builds a comprehensive exploration of possibilities.

Unlock Step-by-Step Instructions

Create a free account to access step-by-step instructions, agendas, and resources for all activities.

For Facilitators

  • Review participant profiles and expectations
  • Prepare all materials and supplies
  • Test technology and room setup

For Participants

  • Complete pre-session survey
  • Review background materials
  • Prepare examples or case studies

Unlock Pre-Work Requirements

Create a free account to access step-by-step instructions, agendas, and resources for all activities.


  • Online whiteboarding tool

  • Virtual sticky notes in different colors for each letter

  • SCAMPER template or guide

  • Timer

Unlock Materials Required

Create a free account to access step-by-step instructions, agendas, and resources for all activities.

  • Facilitator Guide (PDF)
  • Participant Workbook Template
  • Presentation Slides
  • Printable Materials

Unlock Resources & Templates

Create a free account to access step-by-step instructions, agendas, and resources for all activities.

Discussion

0/2000
Loading comments...

Related Exercises

See all exercises

Mind Mapping

40 mins

Mind mapping helps you capture and organize information visually. Start with a central concept and branch out with related ideas, words, and images. I...

Remote focused

How-Now-Wow

40 mins

The How-Now-Wow matrix helps teams select ideas. It categorizes them by originality and how easy they are to implement. This 2x2 matrix highlights inn...

Remote focused

IDEO-Storyboarding

45 mins

Create a user scenario or story as a group by drawing it in sequential panels, like a comic book. Aim for eight panels and give participants ten minut...

Remote focused