Explore alternatives
SCAMPER encourages participants to view solutions from multiple angles.
Design thinking resource
SCAMPER
A structured creativity method for improving existing products, services and experiences.
Challenge assumptions
Each prompt questions current ways of thinking and reveals new opportunities.
Stimulate creativity
The framework provides practical prompts for innovation.
Put the method to work
Consider whether you can…
Substitute
Combine
Adapt
Modify
Put to another use
Eliminate
Reverse
Why it matters
What SCAMPER makes possible
Provides creative structure
Encourages divergent thinking
Supports innovation
Reveals hidden opportunities
Worked example
See it in action
An illustrative learning example, not a documented project case study. Observations, choices and outcomes show how the method could be applied; they are not research findings.
Challenge
Improve the traditional university orientation experience.
Existing solution
One-day orientation event.
Applying SCAMPER
Substitute
Replace printed information packs with a mobile orientation app.
Combine
Combine orientation activities with peer networking events.
Adapt
Apply onboarding techniques used by successful online communities.
Modify
Extend orientation from one day to four weeks.
Put to another use
Use orientation activities to help students find study partners.
Eliminate
Remove lengthy presentations that students rarely remember.
Reverse
Allow students to choose their own orientation pathway rather than following a prescribed schedule.
Result
- Three strongest opportunities:
- Orientation app
- Ongoing onboarding program
- Personalised orientation pathway
Common mistake
Treating SCAMPER as a checklist. The strength of the method comes from generating multiple possibilities rather than finding one immediate answer.
Continue exploring
Return to Explore Possibilities.
Place this method back within the broader 5E Design Thinking Framework and continue developing your understanding.