Creativity can be defined as problem identification and idea generation whilst innovation can be defined as idea selection, development and commercialisation.

There are other useful definitions in this field, for example, creativity can be defined as consisting of a number of ideas, a number of diverse ideas and a number of novel ideas.

There are distinct processes that enhance problem identification and idea generation and, similarly, distinct processes that enhance idea selection, development and commercialisation. Whilst there is no sure fire route to commercial success, these processes improve the probability that good ideas will be generated and selected and that investment in developing and commercialising those ideas will not be wasted.

Fast Feedback

Feedback sets the boundaries of a project and tells individuals how far they are from a successful result, how far they are from failure and which direction theyre going.

Slow feedback delays all of the above and:

* Enhances cost to final goal

* Decreases motivation

* Establishes a sense of futility

* Slows down the problem solving process

* Reduces trust

* Is an indicator of inefficient work processes

People who come up with ideas but never get any feedback, will not engage the next time round or may not even bring significant problems to the attention of decision makers.

These and other topics are covered in depth in the MBA dissertation on Managing Creativity & Innovation, which can be purchased (along with a Creativity and Innovation DIY Audit, Good Idea Generator Software and Power Point Presentation) from http://www.managing-creativity.com/

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Kal Bishop, MBA

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