Can we codify creativity? Within these few words are a number of principles that need to be identified and resolved before we can truly answer the question.

The first question is, what is creativity? What are we trying to code?

A useful definition of creativity is that it is the identification of problems and the generation of ideas. Another is the production of a number of diverse and novel ideas. Yet another is engaging in a variety of novel and diverse behaviors.

The second question is, can we measure creativity?

This is necessary, as any coding must result in a measurable change. From the above, we can see that creativity can be measured at several levels, such as: a) we can measure the number of ideas produced and their diversity and novelty, b) the frequency of ideas production in periods, c) the frequency of divergent and novel behaviors adopted during periods or d) we can ask people to rate themselves as creative before and after training.

The third question is, what do we mean by encoding?

It means to codify or organize in a systematic process. From the above, it is clear that codifying creativity is possible if we produce systematic processes that produce measurable changes in the ways mentioned above.

Now to the actual question then. Can we codify creativity?

Okay, yes. If we simply establish a series of processes that produce a measurable improvement in the ways described above.

What processes?

There are an infinite number and each one produces its own set of results. By combining, mixing and rearranging, different results are produced.

Simple psychological games can be used, such as role-playing. In the Journal of Psychology, businessmen were asked to rate themselves on creativity and they ranked very low. Then, after asking them to pretend they were happy-go-lucky hippies, they rated themselves much higher.

Lateral thinking techniques can be used, where the point is to generate ideas without purpose, to generate ideas, to follow seemingly meaningless paths, etc. This simply maximizes the quality and quantity of the idea pool.

Linking techniques can be used. Where daily, innovative and diverse objects are used to create connections with entrepreneurship.

What I just did is code the creativity. Ask any group to come up with ideas related to a particular problem and they will produce a set amount. Use the three above (each containing an infinite number of possibilities) and the group will produce a more creative production.

Using and extrapolating from the above principles (and using more precise techniques), I can, for example, code processes and structures that make it possible to complete a script very quickly.

The above is an incredibly general example, but you get the idea. And this little case begins to demonstrate how creativity can be made measurable, usable, and tangible.

This topic is covered in depth in the MBA dissertation on Managing Creativity and Innovation, which can be purchased (along with a creativity and innovation audit, good idea generator software, and a PowerPoint presentation) at http: //www.managing-creativity. com. You can also receive a free periodic newsletter by entering your email address on this site.

Kal Bishop, MBA

********************************

You may reproduce this article as long as no changes are made and the author’s name and site URL are preserved.