Table Of ContentSimplified TRIZ
New Problem-Solving Applications for Technical
and Business Professionals
Third Edition
Endorsements for Simplified TRIZ,
Third Edition
I was responsible for a 15+ year Six Sigma deployment with a global industrial manufacturer.
During that time we saw projects completed on every aspect of company work. The tools and
processes of “ standard” Six Sigma were enough when, following the analyze phase of D-M-A-
I-C, the improvement needed was self-evident from the data. However, when the solution was not
so clear, Six Sigma was relatively silent on facilitating a team to an innovative solution. We had
learned that one of the strengths of Six Sigma was the flexibility of the D-M-A-I-C framework
to accept new tools in the pursuit of improvement. After reading Simplified TRIZ , we called
Ellen Domb to see if TRIZ might address our need. Over the course of several sessions and some
experimentation, Ellen led us to the incorporation of several TRIZ tools into our Six Sigma train-
ing and toolkit. The combination of the structure and discipline of Six Sigma with the creativity
and innovation of TRIZ give teams a powerful set of tools and processes to address most of the
problems that they will face.
George K. Strodtbeck III
Author of Making Change in Complex Organizations and
Vice President, SBTI
One of the easiest books to read and comprehend, removing the misconception that TRIZ
is complicated to understand …
… . now you can really cruise in your car without becoming the mechanics.
Richard Ng
Quality System Manager, HP Inc. Singapore
Certified TRIZ Level 2
The ability to move forward in the midst of chaos is the new competitive advantage. Simplified
TRIZ: New Problem Solving Application for Technical and Business Professionals, 3rd Edition
provides a structure for problem definition and description of the desired final result that
cuts through the chaos. It has added a new dimension to our operational excellence program.
Traditionally thought of as an engineering tool we have used it very successfully for bioprocess
design and optimization. I will not start a technology development project without using this
method.
Greg Crab
Process Automation Expert
Syngenta Biotechnology Inc.
The process of brainstorming has been used very effectively in the Air Force to address a broad
range of problems. The main benefit of brainstorming is that the quality and diversity of ideas
produced by a group is greater than the sum of what individuals can generate on their own. This
happens because interactions with one another within a group spur ever greater insights and ideas
from each other and produce a solution beyond what’ s possible for individuals. As part of my
involvement with the Innovative concepts Group (ICG) in the Air Force Research Laboratory
(AFRL) Space Vehicles Directorate in the late 1990s and currently with the Center for Rapid
Innovation (CRI) for all of AFRL, we have used brainstorming extensively. Teams of the best
minds in the government and industry are regularly assembled to solve pressing and complicated
problems for the Air Force across many disciplines to include unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs),
airborne global secure communications, nuclear command and control, and nuclear transport,
among many others. This approach has been instrumental for achieving some of the most revo-
lutionary and breakthrough capabilities for the Air Force, some of which have been subsequently
pursued by the Office of Secretary of Defense (OSD).
Mr. David Conley recently introduced TRIZ to AFRL. To compare the TRIZ approach to
our standard brainstorming process, we gave Mr. Conley four specific problems, which we had
previously evaluated and generated a set of potential solutions.
In a week’ s time, Mr. Conley leveraged the TRIZ analysis process to decompose each of
the problems and generate a lengthy list of possible solutions. Mr. Conley was able to generate
nearly identical solution sets to what we had done using four separate teams of a dozen people
analyzing, brainstorming, and compiling over several weeks. Consequently, TRIZ produced
an approximate twenty times reduction in manpower for problem decomposition, analysis, and
solution generation. The only input Mr. Conley required was a clear problem statement, con-
straints on the solution space, and available resources. That a single person skilled in TRIZ
could single-handedly generate such a diverse and insightful set of solutions in such limited
time was amazing.
A further benefit was that TRIZ provided a very structured decomposition and organiza-
tion of both the problem and solution spaces to help fully capture all potential solutions versus
a seemingly random list of potential solutions generated out of brainstorming sessions. We see
tremendous value in leveraging TRIZ to perform problem analysis, decomposition, and solu-
tion generation and have since regularly leveraged Mr. Conley’ s expertise. By performing TRIZ
analysis up front, the technical team can then enhance the usual analysis output by focusing their
time analyzing the most attractive solution concepts and devote their time to generating a more
comprehensive analysis of the problem, a broader, richer solution space, and a more effective, eco-
nomical final solution.
A fellow AFRL colleague had Mr. Conley perform an analysis of specific elements of satellite
design and expressed that TRIZ brings a disciplined analysis methodology that is very thorough
and all encompassing. Despite Mr. Conley having no particular background in satellite structures,
he was able to apply the TRIZ methodology to generate an impressive set of solution concepts.
Further, he achieved this with very little technical input from AFRL and in an impressively few
number of hours. The results made it clear the processes utilized are robust and capable of accu-
rately focusing on issues that may be hidden within large and complex systems. The breadth
of solutions provided ample flexibility in how the ultimate solution could be implemented with
potential solutions ranging from simple to complex. Further, this systematic innovation process
can be scaled at several hierarchy levels within a system for the purpose of refining and advancing
the most attractive solution concepts.
The Simplified TRIZ 3rd edition adds significant improvements to the earlier edition. Chapter
7 has been added to explain how to apply functional analysis to model problem situations and
how to apply contradiction analysis (and thus solution generation) to these models. Also, Chapter
10 has been significantly expanded with the application of patterns (trends of system evolution) to
developing innovations and includes several new detailed cases studies: 1) the future of washing
machine, 2) the future of parcel delivery (3D printing), and 3) the future of smart phones (mobile
computing).
I highly recommend the TRIZ process and particularly, Mr. David Conley, as a skilled,
insightful, and capable TRIZ operator, for analyzing complex problems and generating a diverse
set of potential solutions. TRIZ is almost certain to generate a simpler, cheaper, and more effective
solution than could be achieved otherwise.
Richard Martin
Air Force Research Laboratory
TRIZ has created such a fundamental shift in my natural way of thinking, I can barely imaging problem
solving without it. TRIZ has allowed me to overcome many challenges, and more importantly, has helped
me to guide and coach many other problem solvers to also overcome their challenges with innovation.
When asked about TRIZ books, I always had to apologize that most books tend to over complicate
TRIZ or over simplify TRIZ to the point of neutralizing its effectiveness.
Simplified TRIZ, 3rd edition effectively bridges this gap presenting an easy to understand, yet
effective usage of the TRIZ methodology.
I hope you also find it valuable.
Just TRIZ it!
Ido Lapidot
Former Intel Corp. Strategic Technologies Planner and
Systematic Innovation leader
A major emphasis of the lab is to assess the applicability of fundamental research to the
technology needs of the Air Force. Often this requires preliminary concept studies to identify
requirements and performance metrics prior to launching in-depth assessments and evaluations.
While methods for assessing technologies against system requirements exist within the lab, little
is available in terms of formal methods for developing initial sets of requirements and perfor-
mance metrics. In particular, for software related technologies; e.g., architecture, logic, informa-
tion assurance, code robustness and V&V techniques, we were simply at a loss on how to approach
the necessary software related technology assessments. TRIZ offered an industry proven formal
method which allow us to move forward with a key software architecture concept study. David
provided an excellent overview of the TRIZ methodology and example applications. After sev-
eral meetings where we refined our inputs and added more detail, David was able to apply his
expertise with the TRIZ formal method and provided us an excellent report detailing the results
of his analysis. The report not only provided us an evaluation of our initial conceptual software
architecture but led to several unexpected novel architectures for us to study in more detail. It was
in identifying these unexpected concepts that the real power and value of TRIZ was realized. The
TRIZ formal method and David’ s expert application of TRIZ proved to be a crucial first step for
initiating several in-depth studies for concepts we simply would not have arrived at through our
intuition and experience alone. If you are looking for a tool to help with identifying innovative and
creative designs I highly recommend the TRIZ formal method for the job.
Dr. Frank R. Chavez, DR-III
Senior Research Aerospace Engineer
Air Force Research Laboratory
Space Vehicles Directorate
Dave Conley and Ellen Domb brings their wealth of problem solving knowledge and experience
into a user-friendly style that is readable and engaging. They solve the contradiction many see with
TRIZ: Too much depth and it can feel overwhelming. Lack of depth leaves the reader wanting
for practical application. Dave and Ellen overcome this contradiction by engaging the reader in
practical examples from the beginning gradually moving to the deeper tools that hold the power
of TRIZ. They reveal the thinking behind TRIZ concepts which enables a deeper understanding
of how to use TRIZ to become an expert problem solver.
Bryan Pollard
Risk Program Manager, Verizon
Level 3 TRIZ Expert
TRIZ has been employed within Syngenta as a method to unbridle creativity while directing
structure to the innovation process. TRIZ helps break down domain-centric thinking and intro-
duces us to a broader and more disruptive solution space. However, the process is also systematic
and disciplined so invention is not at the mercy of happenstance.
The significant benefits realized from the application of TRIZ methodology to Syngenta has
been diverse, from optimized pipelines, application of new fields to old problems, and first mover
advantage in dynamic markets. TRIZ has codified a large swath of past human invention and
integrated it within a methodology that enables solving the task at hand. Simplified TRIZ makes
the method accessible and approachable to a broad audience, and the new edition includes new
tools and an expanded section on how to introduce TRIZ to your company.
Genichi Kakefuda
Crowdsourcing & Innovation Systems Lead
Syngenta Biotechnology Inc.
Simplified TRIZ, 3rd edition effectively bridges … the gap between overly complex and simplistic…
presenting an easy to understand, yet effective usage of the TRIZ methodology.
Ido Lapidot
Former Intel Corp. Strategic Technologies Planner and
Systematic Innovation leader
The TRIZ … . method and … the author’ s… expert application … . proved to be a crucial first step
for initiating several in-depth studies for concepts we simply would not have arrived at through
our intuition and experience alone.
Dr. Frank R. Chavez, DR-III
Senior Research Aerospace Engineer
Air Force Research Laboratory
Space Vehicles Directorate
Simplified TRIZ
New Problem-Solving Applications for Technical
and Business Professionals
Third Edition
By
Kalevi Rantanen, David W. Conley, and Ellen R. Domb
CRC Press
Taylor & Francis Group
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Library of Congress Cataloging‑ in‑ Publication Data
Names: Rantanen, Kalevi, author. | Conley, David W., author. | Domb, Ellen, author.
Title: Simplified TRIZ : new problem solving application for technical and business professionals /
Kalevi Rantanen, David W. Conley, Ellen R. Domb.
Description: 3rd edition. | Boca Raton : Taylor & Francis, CRC Press, 2018. | Includes bibliographical
references and index.
Identifiers: LCCN 2017014563| ISBN 9781138700154 (hardback : alk. paper) | ISBN 9781315204901 (eBook)
Subjects: LCSH: TRIZ theory. | Problem solving--Methodology. | Creative thinking. |Technological innovations.
Classification: LCC TA153 .R26 2018 | DDC 620.0076--dc23
LC record available at https://lccn.loc.gov/2017014563
Visit the Taylor & Francis Web site at
http://www.taylorandfrancis.com
and the CRC Press Web site at
http://www.crcpress.com
Contents
Preface to the Third Edition ....................................................................................................xv
Acknowledgments ...................................................................................................................xix
Authors ....................................................................................................................................xxi
1 Why Do People Seek New Ways to Solve Problems? ....................................................1
1.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................1
1.2 Why Are Good Ideas Rejected? ...............................................................................1
1.3 Common Features of Good Solutions .....................................................................4
1.3.1 Three Basic Concepts for Reaching the Best Solution .................................4
1.4 A New Approach to Problem Solving Is Needed......................................................6
1.5 Summary .................................................................................................................8
References ..........................................................................................................................9
2 Constructing the New Model for Problem Solving: Moving from the Problem
to the Ideal Final Result .............................................................................................11
2.1 Introduction ...........................................................................................................11
2.2 Contradiction .........................................................................................................11
2.2.1 Difficult Problems Contain Contradictions ...............................................11
2.3 Resources ................................................................................................................13
2.4 The Ideal Final Result .............................................................................................13
2.5 Functional Analysis ................................................................................................14
2.6 Patterns of Evolution ..............................................................................................15
2.7 Innovative Principles across Industries ....................................................................16
2.8 Other Concepts and Tools ......................................................................................17
2.9 Why Introduce This Model? ...................................................................................18
2.10 Summary ................................................................................................................19
References ........................................................................................................................20
3 Clarify the Tradeoff behind a Problem .......................................................................21
3.1 Introduction ...........................................................................................................21
3.2 What Are Tradeoffs and Inherent Contradictions? ................................................22
3.2.1 Tradeoff ....................................................................................................22
3.2.2 Inherent Contradiction .............................................................................22
3.3 Why Analyze Tradeoffs? ........................................................................................23
3.4 Defining the Tradeoff ............................................................................................24
3.4.1 Tool and Object ........................................................................................24
3.4.2 Tradeoffs Everywhere ................................................................................27
ix
