Analogy
Analogies are a lateral thinking technique that provides a starting point by transferring functions, processes, and relationships from one domain to another, stimulating new perspectives without proving anything.
THE IDEA
Analogies offer a convenient method for getting going when one is trying to find new ways of looking at a situation instead of just waiting for inspiration. As with other lateral thinking techniques the important point is that one does not start moving only when one can see where one is going. One starts moving for the sake of moving and then sees what happens. An analogy is a convenient way of getting moving for analogies have a definite ‘life’ of their own. There is no attempt to use analogies to prove anything. They are only used as stimulation. The main usefulness of analogies is as vehicles for functions, processes, and relationships, which can then be transferred to the problem under consideration to help restructure it.
When to use it
In business strategy, using the analogy of a chess game to frame competitive moves and anticipate opponent actions.
In education, comparing the learning process to building a house to explain the importance of foundational knowledge.
In design, analogizing the user experience to a journey to identify touchpoints and pain points.
In problem-solving, using an analogy from biology to model network flow or system resilience.
FROM THEORY TO EVERYDAY LIFE
In practice
Organizational growth as an organism
Using the analogy of a living organism to understand how an organization grows, adapts, and self-regulates, which can lead to insights about structure and change management.
Information flow as a river system
Comparing the flow of information in a company to a river network, where tributaries represent departments and the main channel is leadership, helping to identify bottlenecks and blockages.
A MOMENT TO REFLECT
Put it to work.
Think of a current problem you face. What analogy from nature or a different field could provide a new perspective?
How can you use an analogy to restructure your understanding of a complex system?
What is a potential pitfall of relying too heavily on analogies in decision-making?
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION
Source texts
- Lateral Thinking A Textbook of Creativity (Edward de Bono)