The attribute listing is the breakdown of your problem into parts, giving a push to your creative potential and lets you explore multiple solutions.
Have you ever encountered a challenge, and wanted to break it down into smaller, manageable pieces?
In this post we’ll look at the potential of attribute listing for stunning results.
What is Attribute Listing?
At its core, Attribute Listing is an ingenious creative method involving the dissecting of a problem into smaller, more manageable attributes. By doing so, you open the door to exploring diverse solutions for each component.
The magic of attribute listing doesn’t stop there. It often collaborates with other tools like:
- Reversal Technique
- Analogical Reasoning
- SCAMPER
- Word PO
This creates a band of creativity that transforms your approach to problem-solving.
Imagine a treasure map of success, where minor improvements lead to a treasure trove of competitive edge.
Real Life Example of Attribute Listing
For example you are designing a simple object, like a pen. Now, break it down into its constituent parts, like:
- Nib
- Cap
- Tip
- Barrel
- Refill
- Grip
- Dip
But let’s not stop there, explore attributes like:
- Shape
- Length
- Color
- Printing
- Writing functionality
Each attribute becomes a potential canvas for innovation, a road to unique and compelling improvements.
Though when you break down your problem into smaller parts, the problem itself remains the same. However, your perception shifts. This shift acts as a catalyst for a rush of new possibilities for solving it.
As on of the highly acclaimed creativity experts, Michael Michalko puts it:
“When you subdivide the challenge/problem into many parts, the challenge does not change, but your perception of it does and leads to new ideas.”
These attributes can further be categorized into subcategories:
- Physical Attributes: Shape, form, color, texture, structure, sound, taste, space, and more.
- Social Attributes: Responsibilities, taboos, power dynamics, ecological impact, and more.
- Process Attributes: Selling, marketing, production, manufacturing, designing, and beyond.
- Psychological Attributes: Needs, motivation, positive and negative emotions, and more.
- Price Attributes: Production cost, consumer price, cost of manufacturing, and more.
How to List Attributes Step by Step
| Steps | Activity | Description |
| 1 | Identify Attributes | List down all the characteristics, properties, and purpose of your goal. |
| 2 | Evaluate Attributes | Assess the importance of each attribute. Use the rating scale to prioritize based on needs. |
| 3 | Generate Alternatives | Think of different ways to enhance, add, or remove attributes. These minor edits go a long way. |
| 4 | Select and Combine | Based on value and compatibility, choose the best alternative. |
Tips for Effective Attribute Listing
To use attribute listing as an effective tool for creativity and generate new and innovative ideas ponder these tips:
Be as Broad as Possible:
- Go for a general topic for a wider range of possibilities.
- Don’t limit yourself, let your mind wander freely.
Stay Focused on Attributes:
- Think about the qualities of your general idea.
- Consider both tangible and intangible attributes.
Think Different Perspectives and Recombine:
- Consider different viewpoints for your idea.
- Experiment with different perspectives.
- Try creating a new idea with recombining .
Take Visual Aids:
- Use mind maps for organized thoughts.
- Visual aids can help you see connections and patterns.
Avoid Burnouts:
- Don’t get overwhelmed with forced brainstorming.
- Take breaks, step away, and let your subconscious mind do the work.
Evaluate your Ideas:
- Once you generate a list of attributes, evaluate them.
- Pick out the promising ones and push them further.
All in All
Attribute listing is a strong tool for upscale your creative side. By breaking challenges into smaller, more manageable attributes, you explore a wide range of new innovative solutions.
Think broadly, consider different perspectives, and don’t overwhelm yourself. With a little practice, you can use attribute listing as a great tool for enhanced creativity.
So, the next time you’re out of creativity, give attribute listing a try. You might be surprised at the creative ideas that emerge.
