2 docs tagged with "analogy"

Analogical Reasoning is the cognitive process of solving problems by recognising structural similarities to problems in other domains that have already been solved. When a new problem shares deep structural features with a solved problem, the solution strategy from the solved domain may transfer — with adaptations. It is how Gutenberg adapted wine-press mechanics to printing, how Darwin applied Malthusian economics to biological variation, and how engineers routinely transfer solutions across industries.

Synectics is a structured creativity methodology developed by William Gordon in the 1960s that uses four types of deliberate analogy — direct analogy, personal analogy, symbolic analogy, and fantasy analogy — to make the familiar strange and the strange familiar. Unlike free association, Synectics provides a systematic framework for analogical thinking, producing consistently novel ideas by importing solutions from distant domains. It has been used to generate breakthrough product innovations at companies including Kimberly-Clark, Johnson & Johnson, and Procter & Gamble.