The results of applying TRIZ to several information technology (IT) problems are summarized and reported. Two case studies demonstrate examples of applying the 9 Laws to predict the next state of technology in IT Services and Business Intelligence. Four case studies demonstrate examples of problem formulation and conflict resolution via the application of the 40 Principles to IT problems, including data security, software development estimation, long-term service contract flexibility, and IT cost reduction associated with server and storage utilization. In each case, a summary of the business problem is presented, followed by an overview of the TRIZ analysis, and a review of the outcome. TRIZ helped uncover novel and innovative solutions in these cases. These applications offered an opportunity for assessing the usage modalities TRIZ in a non-physical domain, and the lessons learned regarding the applications of the 9 Laws, system conflicts, and the principles are also presented. These cases demonstrated that TRIZ is a viable approach for systematically solving certain IT problems, and guidelines for selecting these problems is also discussed.   




Kas Kasravi is an HP Fellow and a Patent Strategist at Hewlett-Packard. He has been with EDS (now HP Enterprise Services) since 1985, where his efforts have been focused on developing and leveraging advanced technologies. His areas of interest include artificial intelligence, data mining, computational linguistics, predictive analysis, and simulation. He has developed innovative solutions for clients in diverse industries, including engineering, manufacturing, pharmaceutical, financial, securities, supply chain, insurance, defense, and government.

 

Kas has been the recipient of two General Motors trade secrets, eight patents, and has a dozen patents pending. He has published a number of papers in various topics including artificial intelligence, business intelligence, data analysis, and innovation methodologies. Kas has BS and MS degrees in engineering and a law degree with emphasis on intellectual property and patents. He is a Certified Manufacturing Engineer. 

 

In addition to his work at HP, Kas has been involved with academia for many years, and he has taught engineering subjects at the University of Detroit-Mercy, Highland Park Community College, and Central Michigan University.