DTC (Dimensions; Time; Cost) Operator

Process tool for Innovation

Dimension Time Cost Operator (DTC) – A TRIZ tool for seeing problems differently. Exploring ideas of extremes in size, time and cost.

The DTC Operator can work to release Psychological Inertia AKA Mental / Organizational Stuckness

PSYCHOLOGICAL INERTIA. The psychological meaning of the word

"inertia" implies an indisposition to change – a certain "stuckness" due to

human programming. It represents the inevitability of behaving in a certain way

– the way that has been indelibly inscribed somewhere in the brain. It also represents the impossibility – as long as

a person is guided by his habits – of ever behaving in a better way.

– Kowalick

Routine causes of psychological inertia; Having a fixed vision (or model)

of the solution or root cause. False assumptions (trusting the

data). Language that is a strong carrier

of psychological inertia. Specific terminology carries psychological inertia.

Experience, expertise and reliance upon previous results.

Limited knowledge, hidden resources or mechanisms.

Inflexibility (model worship; trying to prove a specific theory, stubbornness).

Using the same strategy. Keep thinking the same way and you will continue to get the same result.

Rushing to a solution – incomplete thinking.

The DTC Operator Algorithm

Define the problem: Name the system or the part of the system of interest.

Consider ideas created by DTC extremes:

Dimensions: If dimensions were extremely large what would success look like, how would that happen, in what way could that system be developed?

List ideas/solutions:

If dimensions were extremely small (almost gone) what would success look like, how would that happen, in what ways could that system be developed?

List ideas/solutions:

Time:If time were extremely long what would success look like, how would that happen, in what ways could that system be developed? (i.e. Days, Years, Decades instead of seconds or minutes) OR If speed were extremely slow what would success look like, how would that happen, in what ways could that system be developed?

List ideas/solutions:

If time were extremely small what would success look like, how would that happen, in what ways could that system be developed? (i.e. nanoseconds instead of seconds) OR If speed were extremely fast what would success look like, how would that happen, in what ways could that system be developed?

List ideas/solutions:

Cost:(Not just in terms of dollars but costs in terms of downsides, harmful effects, etc…) If there was no limit on cost how could the problem be solved, in what ways could that system be developed?

List ideas/solutions:

If costs were extremely limited what would success look like, how would that happen, in what ways could that system be developed?

List ideas/solutions:

The DTC Operator Algorithm

Define the problem: Name the system or the part of the system of interest.

Consider ideas created by DTC extremes:

Example of DTC Operator TRIZ Innovation, used to solve a Managerial Leadership Training Problem.

Create-LearningInnovation Programs

About the ProgramsOrganizations that wish to remain competitive in the businessenvironment must develop their capacity to generate creative ideas and then use their talent well to transfer these ideas into innovative practices. This leads to new processes and improved methods for the best use of existing resources, and increases the ability to solve problems and implement solutions that enhance the organization. In addition to broadening their personal capacity for creativity and innovation, leaders are better able to implement innovative ideas into their existing business model.

Using a mixture of creative problem solving and brain based leadership models the participants will find solutions to existing organizational situations and develop the steps to incorporate these innovations into their work.Program times, length, and focus are customized and developed to best serve your needs.

Outcomes of Create-Learning Innovation Programs:•Develop a culture of innovation that engages team member creativity and energy •Challenge old ways of thinking and design new paradigms to drive greater success •Use existing resources to their greatest capacity •Share information amongst and between functions to reduce redundant work and speed productivity

Contact: mike@create-learning.com +1.716.629.3678 www.create-learning.com

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