MicroSims
This course includes 33 interactive MicroSims — one or more per chapter — built with p5.js. Each sim is embedded in its chapter and is also accessible as a standalone fullscreen page.
The Learning Graph Viewer is a separate tool for exploring the course concept dependency graph.
Chapter 1 — The Innovation Challenge
| MicroSim | Description |
|---|---|
| VUCA Environment Explorer | Interactive 2×2 grid exploring the four VUCA dimensions with scenario intensity overlays |
| Linear vs. Non-Linear Thinking | Animated comparison of linear and non-linear problem-solving pathways with VUCA mode |
| Einstein Time Allocation Model | Adjustable gauge showing how problem-definition vs. solution-search time affects solution quality |
| Divergent-Convergent Thinking Cycle | Diamond-shaped possibility space that expands and contracts as you control divergent and convergent phases |
Chapter 2 — The Thinking Toolkit
| MicroSim | Description |
|---|---|
| Cognitive Levels Map | Interactive Bloom's Taxonomy explorer mapping cognitive levels to innovation tasks |
| Thinking Mode Selector | Scenario-based tool for selecting the appropriate thinking mode for a given problem type |
| Cognitive Bias Impact Map | Map of common cognitive biases and their impact on each stage of the innovation process |
| Divergent-Convergent Calibrator | Calibration tool for judging when to switch between divergent and convergent phases |
Chapter 3 — Philosophical Roots
| MicroSim | Description |
|---|---|
| Dialectical Method Visualizer | Animated thesis → antithesis → synthesis progression with real-world examples |
| Morphological Analysis Matrix Builder | Interactive grid for selecting parameter values and generating novel configurations |
| Three Schools Integration Map | Comparison of Socratic, Platonic, and Aristotelian roots and how each informs Matrix Morphology |
Chapter 4 — Discovery Mindset
| MicroSim | Description |
|---|---|
| Motivation Type and Discovery Quality | Simulator showing how intrinsic vs. extrinsic motivation affects discovery quality and breadth |
| Pattern Recognition Simulator | Training tool for identifying structural patterns across seemingly unrelated problem domains |
| Discovery Process Flow | Animated flow through the four-stage discovery process with deliberate practice checkpoints |
Chapter 5 — Matrix Morphology Framework
| MicroSim | Description |
|---|---|
| Matrix Morphology Explorer | Interactive 2×2 matrix for placing known solutions and identifying the Q4 target zone |
| Gap Analysis Visualizer | Visual comparison of current-state vs. Q4 target with gap measurement across multiple dimensions |
| Innovation Radiation Map | Network diagram showing how a Q4 synthesis radiates into adjacent domains |
Chapter 6 — The Four-Step Kernel
| MicroSim | Description |
|---|---|
| Inversion Path Animator | Step-by-step animation of the assumption-inversion process from problem to Q4 candidate |
| Force Mapping Workspace | Workspace for mapping thesis and antithesis forces and identifying the structural tension |
| Time Elevator Navigator | Timeline tool for positioning a synthesis candidate across the three Time Elevator stages |
Chapter 7 — Synthesis, Resolution, Application
| MicroSim | Description |
|---|---|
| Resolution vs. Optimization | Animated comparison of optimization paths (diagonal drift) vs. resolution paths (architectural leap to Q4) |
| Innovation Type Spectrum | Spectrum from incremental improvement to architectural breakthrough with real-world anchors |
Chapter 8 — TRIZ and Systems Thinking
| MicroSim | Description |
|---|---|
| TRIZ vs. Matrix Morphology Comparison | Side-by-side comparison of TRIZ and Matrix Morphology on key dimensions |
| Feedback Loop Mapper | Tool for drawing reinforcing and balancing loops within a contradiction's system |
| Systems Variables Map | Four-quadrant map of Environment, Culture, Mindset, and Process variables with leverage analysis |
Chapter 9 — Technical Innovation
| MicroSim | Description |
|---|---|
| Computing Innovation Timeline | Horizontal 1945–2025 timeline distinguishing Q4 architectural syntheses from incremental improvements |
| Technology Forecasting Matrix | Domain-specific 2×2 matrix for projecting Q4 syntheses and mapping the Time Elevator roadmap |
Chapter 10 — Organizational Innovation
| MicroSim | Description |
|---|---|
| Org Agility vs. Scalability Matrix | Pre-placed real organizations on the agility-scalability matrix with Q4 transition arrow analysis |
| VUCA Leadership Selector | Five-scenario quiz matching leadership modes (Directive, Coaching, Facilitative, Distributive) to VUCA challenges |
Chapter 11 — Social and Behavioral Applications
| MicroSim | Description |
|---|---|
| Pandemic Response Matrix | Drag-and-place policy tiles onto a biological vs. economic stability matrix; combine for Q4 synthesis |
| Social Contradiction Workspace | Multi-stakeholder matrix with draggable dots and "Find Common Ground" analysis for social contradictions |
Chapter 12 — Learning, Reflection, and Portfolio
| MicroSim | Description |
|---|---|
| Matrix Template Builder | Six-tab guided portfolio builder covering all components of the Matrix Template Exercise |
| Peer Critique Evaluator | Five-criterion accordion for evaluating a Matrix Template Exercise with expert calibration comparison |