Resources & Tools

SCAMPER Technique

The SCAMPER Technique is a process improvement tool that helps teams improve existing processes or create new ones by increasing creativity and generating many ideas. Because it’s an idea generator, some ideas may be impractical or too costly, but all should be written down without judgment—prioritization comes later.

• S – Substitute 
• C – Combine 
• A – Adapt 
• M – Modify
• P – Put to another use
• E – Eliminate  
• R – Reverse 

Developed by Public Health Foundation (PHF) Senior Quality Advisor John W. Moran and PHF quality improvement expert Sonja Armbruster adapted this tool and the accompanying example for a public health audience.