Analogy Mining

Find proven solutions in distant domains and translate them to your context.

Core Insight

Most "new" ideas are old ideas from somewhere else. The further the source domain, the more novel the result.

Process

1. Abstract the problem (remove domain-specific words)
2. Ask "Where else does this pattern exist?"
3. Study how that domain solves it
4. Translate the solution back to your context

Output Format

## Analogy Mining: [Problem]

### Abstract Pattern
**Specific problem:** [The challenge as stated]
**Abstract pattern:** [The underlying question without domain-specific words]

### Domain Explorations

#### Domain 1: [Distant Field]
**How they solve it:** [Their approach]
**Key principles:** [What makes it work]
**Translated to your context:** [How this applies]

#### Domain 2: [Another Field]
**How they solve it:** [Their approach]
**Key principles:** [What makes it work]
**Translated to your context:** [How this applies]

#### Domain 3: [Another Field]
**How they solve it:** [Their approach]
**Key principles:** [What makes it work]
**Translated to your context:** [How this applies]

### Best Translation
**From:** [Domain]
**Principle:** [Core insight]
**Applied:** [Specific implementation for your situation]

### Why This Works
[Why the analogy holds]

Abstraction Examples

Domain Sources

• For processes: Manufacturing, nature, sports
• For retention: Habits, rituals, relationships
• For growth: Ecosystems, networks, movements
• For pricing: Auctions, subscriptions, freemium models
• For quality: Craftsmanship, medicine, aviation

Apply to the user's problem immediately.