To be regarded the morphologic analysis is all possible solutions a creative analytic method around complex problem areas completely to be seized and prejudiceless (see training to living 2002 P. 532).

It takes place in a group up to 7 persons, whereby the knowledge and idea potential extend. Execution is steered by a moderator and lasts approx. until 2 hours.

Together with the analysis of the problem a Verallgemeinerung of the question is appropriate. Thus one extends the problem field with the goal original solutions to find (see Siemens AG (Hrsg.) 1992 P. 158). The morphologic analysis avails itself of the morphologic box, the descriptive picture of a multidimensional matrix.

Morphologic box (Zwicky box)

The morphologic box is a systematically analytic creativity technology after Swiss astrophysicist Fritz Zwicky (1898-1974). The multidimensional matrix forms the principal item of the morphologic analysis.

Proceeding

1. For a question the determining characteristics (also attributes, factors, parameter, dimensions mentioned) are specified and written one under the other. Here it is to be made certain that the characteristics are independent and that they are also convertible regarding setting of tasks (operationalisierbar).
2. Then all possible developments of the respective characteristic are right written beside it. Thus a matrix in each combination of developments develops all for characteristics a theoretically possible solution is (see Siemens AG (Hrsg.) 1992 P. 159).
3. Afterwards from each line a development of the characteristic is selected, whereby a combination of developments develops. This can take place in two kinds:

Systematically: e.g. by application of the multi-factor method, the number of the characteristics and developments is limited.

Intuitively: The working on regards the matrix and selects from each line a development. The Linienzug developing from it is then regarded holistic as alternative solution.

This selection process is several times accomplished. With the developed combinations of developments ideas are developed.

E.g. three if characteristics are present, then one can imagine the three characteristics as the axles of a box - thus a three-dimensional matrix -. On each axle one imagines far respective developments of the characteristic. A combination of three developments supplies then one point within the box.

This can be generalized of three on as many as desired (n) characteristics, whereby one receives n-dimensional boxes. However it appears meaningfully to select only five to ten characteristics and developments since the many solution types are otherwise practically no longer manageable.

In order to limit the solution number, one has the possibility of decreasing the number of characteristics by increasing its complexity degree (e.g. by superordinate terms) or a weighting of the characteristics and developments to accomplish. (see Siemens AG (Hrsg.) 1992 P. 160)

Example

A new table is to be invented

Characteristics, attributes, factors, parameter, dimensions

• Number of legs: 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 100
• Material: Wood, glass, plastics, cork, material
• Height: 0 cm, 20 cm, 50 cm, 1 m, 2 m
• Form: approximately, squarely

Idea: no leg, glass, 1m, approximately: The table floats - becomes suspended e.g. from the cover.

Experiences

For complex problems it is appropriate to work in a group in order to promote the versatility of the solutions. With the search for developments to the compiled characteristics the employment of another group can often be favourable, which does not know original setting of tasks yet. This can avoid thinking barriers and bring original solutions out.

Problems can develop with the development of the substantial characteristics and the demarcation of the characteristics and their developments. Problematic also the evaluation is at a very large number of solutions. If it comes to the selection decision, it happens frequently that to large groups are inefficient.

Summary

• Author of the method: Fritz Zwicky
• Main application purpose: new products find
• Duration: 30-120 minutes
• Number of participants: 1-7

Alternative one

Preparing techniques for idea production are:

• Game of roles
• Utopia play
• Pro and retort play

Further special problem solution techniques are:

• Brainstorming
• Method 635
• Collective Notebook (CNB)
• Synectics

See also

Creativity techniques, morphology

Literature

Siemens AG (Hrsg.) (1992): Organization planning 8. Aufl.Schulte Zurhausen (2002): Organization 3. Aufl.

Related links

• http://www.wiwi.uni-bremen.de/mh/pdf/EMT_Entscheidungsmethoden.pdf
• http://www.artm-friends.at/am/km/WM-Methoden/WM-Methoden-285.htm
• http://beat.doebe.li/bibliothek/w00444.html
• General Morphological analysis: A general Method for Non Quantified Modelling From the Swedish Morphological Society
• About Fritz Zwicky From the Swedish Morphological Society
• Modelling Complex Socio Technical of system using Morphological analysis

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