Parallels
Is there something similar in another field? See also Swiping.
Synetics
A proprietary diverge-converge methodology that relies heavily on metaphor and analogy, developed by Bill Gordon and George Prince, and marketed by Synectics Limited. It is implementation-focused and makes frequent use of Excursion Techniques. More info: [1]. http://www.synecticsworld.com/
Career Excursion
Here you look at the problem through the eyes of someone who does a completely different job, such as a nurse, an astronaut or a ballet dancer. (Unless you too happen to be a nurse, an astronaut, or a ballet dancer...)
Be The Problem
Imagine you are the problem or issue under consideration. This may require the use of another method, such as Benchmarking.
Street Excursion
This simply means taking a walk and using whatever you see to trigger new associations. Certain environments can be particularly rich sources of ideas: high streets, parks, zoos, industrial areas, and so on.
Random Objects
A number of different objects, specially selected to stimulate new thinking, are put into a box. People close their eyes, dip into the box, pull out one of the objects and use this as a stimulus for new ideas. This is [...]
Proverbs and Cliches
Approach A box or hat is filled with proverbs and cliches, each written on slip of paper, such as a watched pot never boils. Participants are asked to relate this proverb to the problem or innovation project they are working on, [...]
Card Decks
Includes: Angel Cards, Medicine Cards, OH! Cards, Psycards, Tarot Cards, and Zen Koan Cards. See also: Creative Whack Pack, Innovative Whack Pack, Cards from Solution People