Monday, May 16, 2011

Creative People In Business Is The Only Route To Innovation

By Gnifrus Urquart


The validity of lateral thinking as the main source of new ideas has been proven by many different studies. Most organizations, however, still cling to the notion that logical thinking is the only sensible way to reach a conclusion. Creative people in business encourages the generation of new ideas, and the study of methods and procedures from different points of view, while linear thinking is based upon the elimination of ideas until only one remains.

Most analysts will agree that businesses that thrive in difficult and competitive environments are those that encourage lateral thinking that lead to innovation. The consumer at large is becoming more and more fickle, demanding new products and easier ways of doing things all the time. Lateral thinkers are able to look at existing situations and think of new ways to do the same thing, or to even replace the old with a totally new concept.

It is not possible to reap the fruits of lateral thinking if the environment is not conductive to it. The work environment must encourage the exploration of new ideas, and this is often very difficult for organizations clinging to a rigid structure of seniority. Lateral thinkers are often seen as disruptive, even disrespectful.

Unfortunately, most individuals believe that creativity is something that you are born with. You have it or you do not. Yet many studies have shown that all individuals are creative in nature. It is our traditional value systems and training that has caused a conditioned way of viewing the thinking process. Anybody can be tough techniques to change the way they think, and many successful companies insist that all employees undergo some training at least.

Inquisitive individuals are very often seen as a nuisance, yet curiosity is often the source of innovation. Curious individuals question existing methods, products and processes, and they deliberate about the effects that changes may have. This process is often taken as far as formal study of the subject and the end result is often well considered innovative improvements.

The characteristics of innovative people have been the subject of many respectable studies. It is generally agreed that these people have a high degree of intelligence, tempered with humility. They are playful yet disciplined and they are energetic. Another common denominator is that they are almost always passionate about their work and beliefs.

The juggernaut that is modern society is highly dynamic. New circumstances and problems are presented at an astonishing pace and it is only the creative people in business that are able to respond to these challenges and to thrive in the process. A lack of innovative thinking will almost certainly lead to failure in this world.




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