Principle of CONTRADICTIONS
T-shooting Heuristics
Definition:
A contradiction arises when a system must possess mutually exclusive properties to meet different requirements.
Key Contradiction Formulations:
- "The object must have property A in order to... and must have anti-A in order to..."
- "The object must perform action A in order to... and must perform anti-action A in order to..."
- "The object must have property A in order to... and must not have property A in order to..."
Ways to Resolve Contradictions:
1. In Time:
- Separate the contradictory properties over time.
- Alternate between opposite states.
- Use transitional processes.
- Example: The builder Sostratus inscribed his name on a wall, then covered it with a layer of lime showing the ruler's name. As the lime weathered away, his own name appeared.
2. In Space:
- Separate contradictory properties into different parts of the system.
- Use different zones for different functions.
- Create intermediate areas.
- Example: To shorten the reach of a gangway, steps are arranged in a staggered pattern.
3. In Relationships/Interactions:
- Make the property relative for different interactions.
- Use different modes of operation.
- Change the nature of the interaction.
- Example: A rotating brush for cleaning ships has one part rotating in one direction and the other in the opposite direction.
Algorithm for Working with Contradictions:
1. Identifying the Contradiction:
- Define the conflicting requirements.
- Formulate the "must and must not" clearly.
- Find the cause of the conflict.
2. Intensifying the Contradiction:
- Push the requirements to the extreme.
- Eliminate the possibility of compromise.
- Make the conflict clear and undeniable.
3. Finding a Resolution Method:
- Check the possibility of separating in time.
- Consider spatial separation.
- Explore options for changing relationships.
4. Verifying the Solution:
- Are both requirements fully met?
- Is there no compromise?
- Are there any new contradictions introduced?
Examples from Various Fields:
1. Technical:
- A door must be open for people but closed to air (revolving door).
- A greenhouse roof must let light in and retain heat.
- A structure must be both strong and lightweight.
2. Business:
- A product must be high-quality and inexpensive.
- Employees need to be controlled but also given freedom.
- Processes should be standardized but also encourage creativity.
3. Social:
- Punishment must be strict yet humane.
- Education should be both universal and individualized.
- Rules should be clear but flexible.
Common Mistakes:
1. Seeking a compromise instead of resolving the contradiction.
2. Ignoring one of the requirements.
3. Creating half-measures.
4. Abandoning the search for an ideal solution.
5. Fear of radical formulations.
Practical Recommendations:
1. Start with the sharpest formulation of the contradiction.
2. Do not fear "impossible" requirements.
3. Look for resources to resolve the contradiction within the system.
4. Use all three resolution methods.
5. Check the completeness of the contradiction resolution.
Characteristics of a Good Solution:
1. Both contradictory requirements are fully met.
2. No additional costs are required.
3. Existing resources are utilized.
4. The system becomes more ideal.
5. The solution creates new opportunities.
Control Questions:
1. Are we really dealing with a contradiction?
2. Can the contradiction be intensified even further?
3. Have all resolution methods been considered?
4. Are both requirements fully met?
5. Are there any hidden compromises left?
Notes:
- A contradiction is a sign of a strong problem.
- Working with contradictions requires bold thinking.
- Often, the solution lies beyond the usual scope.
- A good resolution of a contradiction results in a leap forward in system development.