SCAMPER this.

While learning different techniques to boost my creativity, I can't help but wonder who actually uses these crazy techniques. As I sat enjoying my delicious Birthday Cake Oreos, I realized companies probably use techniques all the time. Honestly, look at some of the crazy inventions that have come to fruition. 


The first crazy invention that was SCAMPER-ed into existence is the Snuggie. Like I could mention anything else. 

The original blanket with sleeves combined the problems of cold hands while texting, a constantly moving blanket and the need for an additional wizard robe into one magical garment. A website (snuggiesightings.com) allows you to post pictures of when you've seen a Snuggie in the wild. You can even get one for your dog.

Next we find nail stickers.

Someone (like me) who couldn't paint their nails thought how can I combine the beauty of exotic prints with the ease of no mess application. Hence the nail sticker. These strips make sure that your nails are never stained or sloppy looking. If applied right.


Finally, we have the BookBook. 

Someone sat their thinking, "Man, I'd really like to have a device that protects my phone, carries my wallet necessities and looks like a book so I can hide the face that I have my phone out," and created the BookBook.


 You can even get them for your Macbook.

All of the above examples illustrate what can happen when you look at the uses, functions and needs of different objects and combine them into a new product. These things sound crazy until you realize how great the combinations are. I couldn't live without my Snuggie.


Seeing these inventions helped me find perspective on Thinkertoys and realize that maybe, just maybe, I will too find use for them someday.