What it is for:SCAMPER is an idea technique that applies seven prompts to something that already exists: Substitute, Combine, Adapt, Modify, Put to another use, Eliminate and Reverse. The team leaves with a service map covered in specific changes, a short list of the most useful ones, and the assumption behind each one written down.
Who it helps:Teams improving a service or product that already exists, especially when they are stuck and need a structured push.
When to use it
You want to improve a service that already exists, not invent a new one.
A team is stuck and needs a structured way to produce ideas.
You have an experience map or service blueprint and want to rethink individual steps.
How to use it
Choose one current service, small enough to draw on one wall.
Sketch it as five to ten steps from the user's point of view.
Work through the seven prompts, about four minutes each, writing ideas on notes.
Place each idea on the step it changes and mark the useful ones.
Write the expected benefit and the assumption behind each, and choose two or three to check.
Tip:Keep each prompt short and timed. Spending too long on one letter drains energy for the rest.
Credits and sources:Original Tiremesù worksheet and wording. Method credit: Bob Eberle, after Alex Osborn. Further reading: Interaction Design Foundation https://assets.interaction-design.org/literature/topics/scamper
Full guide and film:https://www.tiremesu.com/guides/scamper
