Innovation Rainmakers

Principle

6. Universality

a. Have the object perform multiple functions, thereby

eliminating the need for some other objects

Hints on Usage: Universality is a prevailing state that can include: 1) uniformity of feature, action, or condition in space or time, 2) uniform use of an object for different purposes, 3) use of the same object, action, or feature for different purposes or for use in different ways, and 4) applying the same requirement or feature to different objects, situations or actions, etc.

This principle works against the assumption that everything is individual and has limited use.

Universality also implies comprehensiveness – the capacity to be employed or understood pervasively across a range of sizes, fittings, or uses. It evokes the concept of signifying, quantifying, affirming or denying something about every part or member. To make products and processes more comprehensive, think in terms of making them more dynamic. Use interchangeable elements and moveable or adjustable features. Use them manually or automatically. Also, consider making parts of the system multifunctional such as the frame of a Buell Motorcycle. The frame serves as both support and as the fuel storage system.

When applying the Universality Principle to a system, look at creating a broader use; i.e., multi-purpose, multi-functional, and multi-scalar (different levels of the system). For example, “true universality” applies to concepts such as the universe and time, which exist everywhere and any time. More commonly, however, the principle is applied at the system level or local level.

Making a system, part, or condition universal can create opportunity and synergies that could not exist otherwise.

Examples:

Universality of a System

Air was thought to have a property of universality within the earth's atmosphere – this is being contested and studied intensely by scientists concerned about global warming. In their studies they claim that increasing levels of carbon dioxide within the air will change the condition of the earth’s climate.

The world as we know it and everything on it is made up of atoms. This principle is relied upon by scientists to perform heat transfer calculations that closely predict thermal performance.

Freedom is “universal” in some parts of the world. In other parts of the world, lack of freedom is also “universal.” Political advocates utilize this idea to spread and enforce their ideology.

Human rights are universal in religious ideologies while interpretations of human rights, however, are not universal. Advocates of human rights work tirelessly to educate and inform so that human rights become universal.

Local Universality

Designers strive to develop products for universal use within certain groups of people, i.e., a car seat is designed to fit 99% of the driving population.