Nine windows
The nine windows technique, also known as 9 windows, 9 boxes, 9 screens, multiscreen diagram, or system operator tool is a creative problem-solving technique that analyzes a problem across time and relative to its place within a system.
The approach is based on the Theory of Inventive Problem Solving and involves creating a matrix and placing the current problem in the center.
| Past | Present | Future | |
| Super-system | |||
| System | Current issue | ||
| Sub-system |
The 3 × 3 matrix is divided into three problem-solving levels:
- Super-system, also known as the macro system, refers to the external components and environment that currently interact with the problem or system.
- System refers to the problem or system itself.
- Sub-system, also known as the micro system, refers to the parts or components of the problem or system.