Forced lateral thinking - the use of random search methods in designing products

Through a number of "participative learning" exercises, it may be demonstrated that the human brain can be very predictable in its modus operandii. This is an excellent attribute when considered as a conditioned response to a stimulii as in the case of a defence mechanism. This factor however militates against the brain by reducing its capacity to produce creative ideas. Subsequent exercises analyse shapes, develop abstract products, examine products in use and consider the re-design of products. The paper concludes that random search methods can aid the design process in forcing designers to think laterally.