Innovation thrives on creativity, the wellspring of fresh ideas. Creativity is the ability to create something.
What is creativity?
Defined more as a process than a single act, creativity involves the exploration of divergent thinking pathways to arrive at novel solutions. Put simply, it is the magic that transforms ‘what has been’ into ‘what could be’. Creativity is vital to innovation.
Psychologist Dr. Michael Kirton proposed a framework that categorizes creativity into two distinct modes: adaptive creativity and innovative creativity. This framework sheds light on the diverse ways individuals and organizations approach problem-solving and idea generation.
A. Adaptive creativity
Adaptive creativity excels in the realm of incremental innovation. It is about taking something that already exists and refining, improving, or repurposing it for new applications.
Think of it as evolution in action. Those who excel in adaptive creativity, often referred to as ‘adaptors’, demonstrate a comfort with established systems and readily embrace existing organizational structures, policies, and practices. Their strength lies in generating a steady stream of practical solutions that build upon existing foundations, often extending the life cycle of a product or process. This measured approach makes adaptive creativity a mainstay in many organizations.
Its relatively low risk and ease of implementation make it a cost-effective path to progress.
B. Innovative creativity
Innovative creativity, on the other hand, thrives on radical change. It is the force behind groundbreaking ideas that disrupt the status quo.
‘Innovators’, individuals who excel in this mode, are adept at questioning established norms and redefining problems. Their solutions often involve entirely new approaches, challenging the way things have always been done. Unlike adaptors, who tend towards a more scientific decision-making process, innovators often rely on intuition and calculated risk-taking. Think of Steve Jobs, the visionary co-founder of Apple, whose innovative spirit revolutionized computing, music, and mobile communication.
While the potential rewards of innovative creativity are vast, it is important to acknowledge the inherent risk and unpredictability associated with venturing into uncharted territory.
Synergy of two types of creativity
The most successful organizations understand the value of both creative styles. They recognize that adaptive and innovative approaches each play a crucial role, depending on the specific circumstances.
Kirton suggests that individuals naturally gravitate towards one style or the other. Some may find comfort in working within established frameworks, seeking consensus through an adaptive approach. Others thrive on the challenge of pushing boundaries and forging new paths, embracing innovative solutions.
By fostering an environment that values both approaches, organizations can ensure they have the tools to tackle a broader range of challenges and unlock their full innovative potential.
Summary
Understanding the spectrum of creative approaches is crucial for both individuals and organizations.
Adaptive and innovative thinking offer complementary tools for navigating the ever-evolving landscape of problem-solving and idea generation. By fostering a culture that embraces both approaches, we can unlock the full potential of creativity and transform the possibilities that lie ahead.
