Design Divergence Using the Morphological Chart

Abstract

This paper presents the findings of a review carried out on twelve morphological charts completed in groups, containing a total of 686 sub-solution sketches made for a pool of 21 sub-functions. The charts were reviewed as a whole in terms of group performance in idea generation for a decomposed design problem. Then the ideas generated as sub-solutions were grouped according to sub-functions and were reviewed in terms of idea content and effort in design divergence. It was seen that a background preparation with product trials, 3D component analyses and experience in using the morphological chart method affected the number of cells that the participants completed, as well as the ways in which they filled in the morphological chart. The reviews revealed eleven factors affecting design divergence using the morphological chart method, grouping under the headings of: preparations, group dynamics, boundaries of sub-functions, and analysis of components. Besides, thirteen strategies were identified that participants followed for design divergence using the morphological chart, grouping under the headings of: beginning idea generation, effective idea generation, exploring ideas, diversifying ideas and representing ideas.