Synthetics

Developed by William J. J. Gorden, synthetics is a more recent and nonaligned creativity technique for the generation  of alternative solutions. The term synthetics is derived from a Greek word meaning "the fitting together of diverse elements". The basic intent of synthetics is to stimulate novel and even bizarre alternate through the joining together  of distinct and apparently irrelevant ideas. 

Members of a synthetics group are typically selected to represent a variety of backgrounds and training. An experienced group leader plays a vital role in this approach. The leader states a problem for the group to consider. The group reacts by stating the problem as they understand it. Only after the nature of the problem is thoroughly reviewed and analysed, the group proceeds to offer potential solutions. It is the task of the leader to structure the problem and lead the ensuing discussion in such a manner as to force group members to deviate from their traditional  ways of thinking. Various methods are employed to "invoke the precociousness mind". These may include role-playing,  the use of analogies, paradoxes, metaphors, and other thought-provoking exercises. The intended purpose is to induce fulminates and novel ideas that will modify existing thought patterns in order to stimulation creative alternatives. It is from this complex set of interactions that a final solution hopefully emerges. A technical expert is ordinarily  present to assist the group in evaluating the feasibility of their alternative ideas. Thus, in contrast to brainstorming where the judgement of ideas is withheld until all ideas have been generated, judicial evaluations of members' suggestions do take place from time to time. 

In general, available evidence suggests that synthetics has been less widely used than brainstorming. mile it suffers, from some limitations as brainstorming ( It can be time consuming and costly), its sophisticated manner makes it much more appropriate for complex and technical  problems.