What do creativity managers do?

Replace the word management with the word optimization.

That's what creativity managers do: they optimize the quality of the idea pool (creativity) and the implementation process (innovation).

There are many methods of optimization and the creativity leader must be aware of all of them, in other words, he or she must synthesize them for optimal effect.

Areas [within creativity] that need managing include motivation, organizational culture, organizational structure, incremental versus radical effects and processes, knowledge mix, group structures, goals, process and valuation.

Areas [within innovation] that need managing include idea selection, development / prototyping and the art of commercialization.

It is worth noting that 4000 good ideas result in 4 development programs, which in turn results in 1 winner.

Creative Process

Ask 1000 creators what process they have used and a significant percentage may argue that there was none.

But do your qualitative research, listen to the recorded interviews and common patterns of behavior emerge.

The process includes:

a) Identifying the problem.

b) Intensely investigating the problem.

c) Forcing out ideas using a variety of techniques.

d) Seeking stimuli.

e) Allowing the unconscious mind to take over through rest and unrelated activity.

Learn more?

Download the MBA research, learn about this topic at http://www.creativity-management.com/

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Kal Bishop, MBA