What is creativity?

Use a systematic approach for creative thinking!

Creativity is about coming up with new ideas. Creativity is the front end of innovation. Before you can begin to innovate, you must come up with a great new idea.

In addition to the fine arts, there is another side to creativity. Since I am a business owner, my primary interest is about the practical application of creative thinking to solve problems and create new opportunities.

How do you come up with new ideas for business, science, technology, engineering, new products, or sales? You must and can stimulate your brain by using a systematic approach to creative thinking.

Edward de Bono, internationally acknowledged as a thought leader in the field of creative thinking, says “Creativity is essential in order to create new value.” Think about this! Surely an economic meltdown is the best time to develop your organization’s creative thinking skills. Creativity is a skill that can be taught and learned.

David Tanner, Ph.D, who wrote the book, Total Creativity in Business and Industry, outlines six dimensions of creative thinking. They include 1.) Tools, processes and frameworks 2.) Diversity in styles & preferences, 3.) Engaging the organization, 4.) Organizational systems and structures, 5.) Champions and supports, and 6.) Bringing ideas to market.