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1.7. Causal Chains: sequences of events

How To Invent (Almost) Anything > 1. Analytic Invention > 1.7. Causal Chains: sequences of events

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Causes do not always work in hierarchies and sometimes it is more useful to explore how things cause one another in chains and loops. Notice how Fig. 1.6 tells the story of the thinking around the problem: for a rigid gate, we could use metal, but that is heavy, so what if we put holes in it? Wire mesh is too floppy. Wrought iron would do this, but it is high cost. However, we could achieve the rigidity with a simple metal frame, with a plastic imitation ‘wrought iron’ effect.

Fig. 1.6 Causal chain

Beyond causes, we can use further questioning to identify alternative solutions to our problems.
 

Other logical/analytic tools:

• Decomposition
  • 1.1. Chunking
  • 1.2. Attribute Analysis
  • 1.3. Value Analysis
• Questioning
  • 1.4. Purpose Analysis
  • 1.5. Causal breakdown: the Cause-Effect Diagram
  • 1.6. Root Cause Analysis / Five Whys
  • 1.7. Causal Chains: sequences of events
  • 1.8. Critical Thinking
  • 1.9. Bionics
  • 1.10. 5W1H
  • 1.11. SCAMPER
  • 1.12. Verbs

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