ABSTRACT
The chapter looks at the techniques which are essentially systematic structuring mechanisms designed to facilitate the gaining of insights into the problem. It considers a variety of techniques, including checklists, listing, morphological analysis, force-fit triggers, the heuristic ideation process and component listing. If the subject of a problem has one or more easily identifiable dimensions, most of these techniques may usefully help generate ideas. The chapter examines the techniques which are essentially paradigm-preserving techniques and do not require the use of analogical thinking. Most people should find these techniques extremely easy to use. While the techniques are essentially structuring mechanisms and at first sight appear to be at variance with the nature of creativity, they do afford the facility to undertake unassisted ideation within the structures that they offer. The technique facilitates idea generation by having one prepare a list of items related to a problem and checking the items against certain aspects of the problem.
