Progressive abstraction

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The Progressive Abstraction is a creative technique , to be found by the distance from the problem, so a change of perspective, new solutions in the.

definition

Progressive abstraction is a creativity technique whose conception goes back to Horst Geschka .

With this method, new solutions are found by moving away from the problem, i.e. by changing the perspective. By gradually increasing the level of abstraction and thus separating the essential from the inessential, the core questions of a problem or problem area are revealed.

Two main goals are pursued:

  • The connections between a given problem and the target system of the problem solver are worked out.
  • The level of measures at which solutions are most effective is shown.

Alternatives

As part of the systematic problem specification, various techniques are used to uncover the core questions of a problem in order to obtain new solutions. The most important methods are:

method

  1. One moves away from the problem by looking for the problem on the next higher level. This is done by asking: "What is it actually about?"
  2. A solution is then sought through the following question: "How could that still work?"
  3. If no solution is found, the problem is further abstracted on the next higher level (repetition of 1 and 2).

Progressive abstraction

Conditions and area of ​​use

The progressive abstraction method is chosen if the following two criteria are met:

Features of the problem to be solved :

Progressive abstraction is a suitable method for generating ideas in the case of analysis problems. One tries to recognize structures and to clarify connections.

Situational circumstances of problem solving :

Progressive abstraction is carried out either as a group or individual work. Group members should have sufficient experience with this method and plenty of time must be available.

Progressive abstraction makes sense when creating a list of requirements for a new product concept, especially for brainstorming for complex new products. As part of the change management ( change management ) creativity this technique is used to identify the problem areas.

Advantages and disadvantages

advantages disadvantage
The essence of the task is recognized correct abstraction difficult
Pre-fixations are released trained and experienced team members are necessary
new solutions are discovered Risk of deviating from the actual problem through abstraction

literature

  • Helmut Schlicksupp: Progressive abstraction . In: Helmut Schlicksupp (Ed.): Finding ideas . 5th edition. Vogel Verlag, Würzburg 1999. pp. 64-67

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