Cross-Domain Analogy

When to use

"Use when a solution pattern from one domain can solve a problem in another. Identify the structural similarity (not surface similarity) and transfer the pattern. Analogies are powerful but must be validated."

Example

"The immune system's pattern of recognizing and remembering pathogens inspired computer virus detection. The structural similarity — a system that learns to identify threats and remember them for faster future response — transferred from biology to computing."

Common misuse

"Transferring based on surface similarity rather than structural similarity. A business is like a living organism (surface) does not mean biological principles apply; the question is whether the underlying structure (feedback loops, resource allocation, adaptation) is similar."

Also known as

Related models