1. Clarify the problem. Understand the problem and decompose it into simpler sub-problems.
2. Search externally. Gather information from lead users, experts, patents, published literature, and related products.
3. Search internally. Use individual and group methods to retrieve and adapt the knowledge of the team.
4. Explore systematically. Use classification trees and combination tables to organize the thinking of the team and to synthesize solution fragments.
5. Reflect on the solutions and the process. Identify opportunities for improvement in subsequent iterations or future projects.