Creative thinking author, Michael Michalko, popularised the SCAMPER technique. He credits Alex Osborn with its thinking principles and Bob Eberle with the mnemonic:

S=Substitute
C=Combine
A=Adapt
M=Magnify/Modify
P=Put to other uses
E=Eliminate
R=Rearrange/Reverse

We’ve found this technique particularly useful when looking to develop new applications, uses or extensions of an existing technology. Applying each of these actions to the current paradigm forces a shift in thinking and changes the filter through which you view your situation.