It differs from TRIZ in several ways, but most importantly it is a simpler methodology, which makes it quicker to learn and easier to apply.
Innovative results are achieved using tools (heuristics) designed to elicit complementary contributions from both cerebral hemispheres, generating logical and creative concepts.
USIT tools and methods began their development in the Ford Motor Company Research Laboratory in a training program called structured inventive thinking that continues to be taught and applied in Ford Motor Company worldwide engineering locations (see History and Industrial Experience).
Problem solving is most commonly used in professions such as, engineers, scientists, mathematicians, all of whom have academic degrees, and inventors who bear patents as proof to their talent.
It was introduced into Ford by Dr. Ed Sickafus who modified the methodology for adaptation into an automotive environment and named it "structured inventive thinking", retaining the acronym SIT in honor of the earlier work.
This encourages the rapid application of intuitive problem solving called brainstorming (in which technologists excel) and the quick collection of "low hanging fruit".
All aspects of USIT are derived from a unifying theory based on three fundamental components: objects, attributes, and the effects they support.
2) "Pluralization" focuses on "objects" being multiplied in number or divided into parts, used in different ways, and carried to extremes.
Beginning in 1995, the problem-solving methodology has been taught to Ford's corporate technologists and management in monthly three-day classes.
A reward of USIT is its ability to enable a technologist to begin solving a problem so poorly worded as, "This gismo doesn't work.