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.

The role of motivation

An individual may be 'creative' but if s/he is not motivated then s/he will not produce to optimal levels.

There are two general types of motivation: intrinsic and extrinsic. Intrinsic motivation is that where a task is completed for its own sake. Extrinsic motivation is where a task is completed for an ulterior motive (e.g. payment).

Extrinsic motivators can be subdivided into those that aid the Endeavour (synergistic) and those that hinder it (non-synergistic). For example, payment may ? up to a point ? be a synergistic extrinsic motivator in that it will increase your motivation. On the other hand, a dictate from a boss may be a non-synergistic motivator as it will just make you feel controlled and manipulated.

The ultimate question is how do we maximize motivation. There are a variety of factors that can be applied including, a) closing the gap between the real and ideal self, b) feasibility, c) peer recognition, d) competency expansion, e) fun or enjoy ability and f) reward.

Learn more?

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

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Kal Bishop, MBA