Tool 34: Circumrelation

AKA

Forced Relationship Method

Classification

Idea Generating (IG)

Tool description

The circumrelation method is an idea generation tool developed by Frank Laverty. Using three freely spinning disks, each with factors recorded in respective sections, forced relationships are possible by rotating the disks so that different factors, one from each disk, are lined up to form a combination of factors. Combinations are evaluated for useful ideas or potential solutions.

Typical application

• To examine related problem factors by combining three different factors at a time in an attempt to produce some ideas for problem resolution.

• To discover novel ideas for process improvement.

• To utilize a systemic approach to problem solving.

Problem-solving phase

→	Select and define problem or opportunity
→	Identify and analyze causes or potential change
	Develop and plan possible solutions or change
	Implement and evaluate solution or change
	Measure and report solution or change results
	Recognize and reward team efforts

Typically used by

	Research/statistics
1	Creativity/innovation
	Engineering
	Project management
	Manufacturing
3	Marketing/sales
	Administration/documentation
	Servicing/support
	Customer/quality metrics
2	Change management

links to other tools

before

• Problem Specification

• Brainstorming

• Phillips 66

• Brainwriting Pool

• Focus Group

after

• Criteria Filtering

• Run-It-By

• Different Point of View

• Consensus Decision Making

• Wildest Idea Technique

Notes and key points

• For individual or team idea generation.

• A basic circumrelator has three disks measuring 3, 5, and 7 inches in diameter. A fourth disk is optional.

• Disks are divided into 8, 12, and 16 sections. Multiplying 8 12 16 = 1536 factor combinations or forced relationships.

Step-by-step procedure

• STEP 1 The team (or individual) reviews the previously specified problem.

• STEP 2 Three major areas related to the problem are identified. See example Circumrelation: Reduce Defect Level. People issues, equipment maintenance, and defect types are all related to a reduce defect level.

• STEP 3 The team brainstorms factors for each major area. This process is continued until the team stops generating factors.

• STEP 4 Using the nominal group technique (NGT), the team reduces the number of generated factors in each major area to 8-12-16.

• STEP 5 Factors are now recorded in the sections of the three major areas on the three disks.

• STEP 6 The search for idea-producing combinations calls for the rotation of one disk at a time, lining up different combinations (forced relationships).

• STEP 7 The team assesses all combinations and records any ideas that warrant further consideration in order to solve the problem. See idea in example shown.

Example of tool application