Morphological analysis
A method that breaks a problem down into its dimensions, lists the options for each and explores the possible combinations in a table.
What it’s for
It helps find solutions nobody would think of at first, because it goes through every combination in an orderly way.
Key elements
Independent parts
Each dimension of the problem can be decided separately, such as the energy source or the material.
All the options
For each part, list the alternatives, including the odd ones.
Combinations that fit
Discard those that can’t go together and study the rest.
How it’s done
Name the parts of the problem, in columns.
Fill in the options for each part, in rows.
Combine them by choosing one option per column, and assess the best.
Applications in design
When to use it
When a product has several parts that can each be solved in many ways.
Avoid
Using so many parts and options that the combinations become impossible to review.
Don’t fall for it
The table generates ideas, it doesn’t choose them; you still need to test them.
Connections
Authors and works
- 1969
Fritz Zwicky
The Caltech astrophysicist used it to explore solutions to technical problems, such as propulsion, and explained it in his book.
- 1998
Tom Ritchey
Described how to discard impossible combinations by comparing the options in pairs.
Sources
Original sources
- Zwicky, F. (1969). Discovery, invention, research through the morphological approach. Macmillan.
Academic reviews
- Ritchey, T. (1998). Fritz Zwicky, “Morphologie” and policy analysis. Ponencia en la 16th EURO Conference on Operational Analysis, Bruselas. View source: Ritchey, T. (1998)
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