Innovation Rainmakers

Principle

3. Local Quality

a. Transition from a homogeneous structure of an object or

outside environment (outside action) to a heterogeneous structure

b. Have different parts of the object carry out different

functions

c. Place each part of the object under conditions most

favorable for its operation

Principle Description: Change the characteristics of something (gas, liquid or solid) in a specific area (locally) in order to gain a required functionality.

Hints on Usage: The name of this principle was translated word-for-word from Russian to English and as such, has the potential to convey an incomplete message. The name may be more appropriately called “Optimal Resource” because when using this principle the features are made non-uniform or optimal for each particular location and/or moment of time.

Generally it is assumed that system characteristics are similar everywhere and all of the time. Although this assumption is simple and easy to imagine, it does not reflect reality. By applying The Local Quality principle, we consider improving or degrading the conditions of a characteristic in order to provide optimal function. For example, we have a large steel part that is subject to wear in a specific area while requiring work in another area. In order to reduce wear we could heat-treat a specific area (vary the interaction). And, in order to work in another area - such as drilling a hole in the hard material - we could anneal (soften) a specific spot.

Thus we can achieve optimum functionality by varying interactions in different places (locations), at different moments (locality), for different features (characteristics). Providing optimal conditions (features) for each action might dramatically improve efficiency.

To apply the Local Quality principle to a given system, identify a specific area that requires different conditions for optimal performance. Find a way to alter the conditions to achieve the desired results. Suggestions for altering conditions may include using different forms of energy, such as:

Examples:

A polished surface reduces friction. Texturing a surface increases friction. A polished surface reflects light. A textured surface changes the coefficient of light refraction.

Apply psychology locally - a pleasant and helpful receptionist in the lobby of a company creates a positive first impression of the company (at a particular location). Each time the client returns the receptionist reinforces that image (in time).

A business may release a press release to focus attention on a very successful aspect of the business and away from a more problematic aspect. This same press release may be intended to shift pressure on a competitor in the larger marketplace. This principle may be applied to whatever scales the system demands.

Repeatedly applying a load to the triceps muscles that is out of proportion to the biceps allows for stronger punches in a martial artist. Applying repeated loads to the biceps out of proportion to the triceps develops sensational beach muscles – they look good, but are not as useful for fighting.