CREATIVITY IN ORGANIZATION:

Organizational creativity has become a popular topic of research and discussion in

recent years. According to Shalley & Gilson (2004) Organizational creativity refers to the
"process of generating and implementing new ideas, products, services, or processes
within an organization." (p. 33) It is an essential component of organizational growth and
success in today's competitive environment.

Theories that explain organizational creativity can be categorized into three

perspectives:

1. the individual perspective,

2. the social perspective,
3. and the organizational perspective.

The individual perspective emphasizes the role of individuals in generating and

implementing creative ideas.

The social perspective highlights the importance of social interaction and collaboration
in facilitating creativity.

The organizational perspective emphasizes the role of organizational structures and

processes in promoting creativity.

Factors Affecting Organizational Creativity:

1. Leadership: Effective leadership is critical in promoting organizational creativity.

Leaders need to create a culture that encourages risk-taking, experimentation,
and innovation. They should also provide resources and support for creative
endeavors.
2. Organizational Culture: The organizational culture plays a significant role in
fostering creativity. A culture that values creativity, encourages collaboration, and
allows for experimentation and risk-taking is more likely to produce innovative
ideas.
3. Diversity: A diverse workforce can bring a variety of perspectives and
experiences, leading to more creative solutions. Organizations should strive to
create a culture of inclusion that encourages diverse viewpoints.
4. Organizational Structure: Organizational structure can influence creativity by
facilitating or hindering communication and collaboration. Flat organizational
structures with open communication channels tend to be more conducive to
creativity.
5. Resources: Adequate resources such as time, funding, and technology are
essential for promoting creativity. Organizations that invest in resources for
creativity tend to have more innovative outcomes.
6. Training and Development: Training and development programs can enhance
employees' skills and knowledge, leading to more creative solutions.
 Organizations should provide training programs that focus on creativity, problem-
solving, and innovation.
7. Motivation and Rewards: Motivation and rewards play a critical role in promoting
creativity. Employees should be rewarded for their creative contributions, and
recognition should be given for innovative ideas.

Organizational creativity is vital for organizations seeking to compete in today's dynamic

business environment. This article has highlighted the importance of leadership,
organizational culture, diversity, organizational structure, resources, training and
development, and motivation and rewards in promoting organizational creativity. HR
professionals should explore how organizations can optimize these factors to enhance
creativity and innovation.

Shalley, C. E., & Gilson, L. L. (2004). What leaders need to know: A review of social
and contextual factors that can foster or hinder creativity. The Leadership Quarterly,
15(1), 33-53. doi: 10.1016/j.leaqua.2003.12.004