Creativity is a critical component of innovation (Amabile, 1988; Baer & Frese, 2003). Without it, organizations fail to develop solutions that address market and societal needs, scientists struggle to solve problems that help address management and policy challenges, and policymakers are less productive in driving transformative institutional change.
In recent years, creativity research and innovation research have converged in a variety of ways. However, there remains a gap between micro-level creativity research and macro-level innovation research.
Problem-solving
Problem-solving is a mental process that involves discovering and analyzing problems and then finding solutions to them. Problem-solving can also involve a range of skills such as logical reasoning, creativity, and abstract thinking.
A key part of problem-solving is overcoming obstacles and reaching goals. This is often a creative process that encourages individuals to think outside of the box and come up with novel solutions.
Creativity can be a valuable skill in the workplace, as it shows employers that you have the ability to approach problems from different angles. This can help you find the best solution for the situation and improve your chances of success.
Managers who support employees who work creatively are more likely to perform better than those who do not, according to research. But managers also have a responsibility to protect employees from negative environments and provide them with clear paths to success.
Decision-making
Today’s issues, be they personal, professional, or global in nature, are begging for new solutions that can only be based on forward thinking. To solve these problems, businesses need to adopt creative decision-making skills that will help them explore all possibilities and offer solutions to their clients.
The ability to combine analytical and creative thinking can improve your contributions in the workplace, whether you are a manager or an employee. For example, a team member who can generate alternative marketing ideas or ways to resolve competition will be appreciated by companies across industries.
While the use of research is hindered by differences among researchers, practitioners, and policymakers in their definitions and criteria for evaluating the value of research, these issues can be addressed through partnerships among these sectors. This may be achieved through interdisciplinary working, where professionals from the research and practice sectors are introduced to the work of professionals in other fields, or by focusing on process learning to enhance implementation processes.
Innovation
In this competitive market, business leaders must constantly look for new ways to innovate. It’s an essential part of a company’s survival, growth, and ability to compete with other businesses in the same sector.
Innovation is the process of creating value in an industry or organization, whether it is through a new product or service or a more efficient and cost-effective way of doing business. Companies that innovate tend to be able to survive and grow in the long term because they offer products and services valued by customers.
Innovation can come in a variety of forms, from basic research and sustaining innovation to breakthrough innovation. It is a complex process that involves four stages: clarify, develop, implement, and create value.
Collaboration
Collaboration is a critical skill that helps teams communicate, brainstorm new ideas, and work efficiently towards company goals. It also enhances employees’ overall happiness, productivity, and success rates.
Unlike most traditional forms of problem-solving, creative collaboration requires people to share their knowledge and work together to find solutions. To make this happen, organizations need to cultivate collaboration skills among employees and encourage them to engage in it.
However, Sawyer warns that if a group of people all have the same opinion and experience on a certain topic, they are not going to be as creative as a team that contains different viewpoints and experiences. This is why it’s essential to level the playing field by encouraging input and soliciting ideas from everyone while respecting their individual strengths and preferences.