Mixed Design Heuristics for Strategic Idea Generation

Abstract

This article discusses mixed design heuristics, focusing on the simultaneous or sequential application of two or more of the seven natural heuristics: combination (Com), removal (Rem), separation (Sep), segmentation (Seg), replication (Rep), maximization (Max), and dynamics (Dyn). We introduce 42 mixed design heuristics that emerge from combining two distinct natural heuristics, using these as analytical tools to better understand design dynamics in various systems, including living organisms, commercial entities, products, and constructed environments. These heuristics aid in generating innovative design concepts and strategic courses of action.

Keywords: strategic design, idea generation, sustainable innovation, bioinspiration, business strategy, generative ai