What Is TRIZ?

TRIZ is a systematic method for inventive problem solving. The name comes from a Russian phrase commonly translated as the Theory of Inventive Problem Solving. Rather than relying only on brainstorming, TRIZ looks for recurring patterns in how technical contradictions have been resolved across many fields.

A typical TRIZ problem contains a trade-off: improving one parameter makes another worse. The method reframes that trade-off as a contradiction, identifies the functions and resources in the system, and uses inventive principles or solution patterns to generate alternatives.

Core Ideas in TRIZ

Contradictions. State what should improve and what becomes worse, instead of accepting the trade-off as fixed.

Ideality. Move toward delivering more useful function with less cost, complexity, harm, or resource consumption.

Resources. Look for available materials, energy, information, time, space, or system functions that are not yet being used.

Inventive principles. Use recurring solution patterns as prompts, then translate them into the technical context of the problem.

Evolution patterns. Consider how systems tend to become more dynamic, controllable, integrated, or specialized over time.

How Is TRIZ Used?

1. Define the system. Set the technical boundary, objective, constraints, and stakeholders.
2. Describe the contradiction. Identify the parameter to improve and the undesirable consequence.
3. Find available resources. List useful elements already present in or around the system.
4. Generate concepts. Apply relevant principles and analogous solution patterns without judging too early.
5. Test and refine. Evaluate feasibility, risk, novelty, manufacturability, and business fit.

Patsnap Eureka’s TRIZ Innovation Agent can help teams move from a loosely framed challenge to structured contradictions and candidate solution directions. A Technology Research Report can then provide technical and patent evidence around the most promising concepts.