The theory of inventive problem solving (TRIZ) is widely acclaimed by adoptees and in the academic literature. This research project set out to give an account of how TRIZ has been used in the industry in the UK by examining its use in a small sample of SMEs (Small, Medium Enterprises) and also a blue chip company in order to clarify whether this technique is really as good as its proponents states or there are problems in its application. A series of surveys and a practical TRIZ event identified an apparent disparity between the low reported industrial take-up of TRIZ and perceptions within the TRIZ community which indicate more widespread use. After consulting with TRIZ experts, it is thought that one of the main reasons for this is because of the perception that TRIZ is complicated and hard to use. For this reason, a new process has been developed which can be incorporated in association with TRIZ to benefit and improve the use of TRIZ.