To stimulate creative thinking and generate new ideas by applying structured prompts that help participants rethink and improve existing concepts.

SCAMPER is a widely used ideation tool that helps individuals and teams explore how an existing product, service, process, or idea could be improved or transformed. The name SCAMPER is an acronym for seven types of creative prompts:

• S – Substitute: What could be replaced?
• C – Combine: What could be merged or connected?
• A – Adapt: What could be adjusted or borrowed from elsewhere?
• M – Modify (or Magnify/Minify): What could be changed in size, shape, or function?
• P – Put to another use: How else could this be used?
• E – Eliminate: What could be removed or simplified?
• R – Reverse or Rearrange: What could be flipped or reordered?

Each prompt acts as a guiding question—a “mental nudge” that encourages participants to look at their idea from a different angle. These prompts help break habitual thinking patterns and open up new possibilities for innovation.

SCAMPER is especially useful in early-stage innovation, service design, product development, and problem-solving. It can be used individually or in groups, and works well with visual brainstorming techniques.

Tips for use:

• Start with a clearly defined challenge or idea.
• Encourage open-mindedness—wild ideas are welcome.
• Use visual aids to support group engagement.
• Revisit SCAMPER prompts after a break to spark fresh thinking.
• Combine with other tools to move from idea generation to evaluation and planning.

• SCAMPER worksheet or template
• Flipcharts or whiteboards
• Pens or sticky notes
• Optional: printed prompt cards or examples