Codifying Creativity

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

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

One useful definition of creativity is that it is problem identification and idea generation. Another is the production of a number of diverse and novel ideas. Yet another is the engagement in a number of diverse and novel behaviours.

The second question is, can we measure creativity?

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

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

It means to code or organise into a systematic process. From the above, it becomes clear that codifying creativity is possible if we produce systematic processes that produce measurable change in the ways mentioned above.

Now onto the real question then. Can we codify creativity?

Well, yes. If we just set out a number of processes that produce measurable improvement in the ways described above.

What processes?

There are an infinite number and each produces it's own set of results. By combining, mixing and rearranging, different results occur.

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

Lateral thinking techniques can be used, where the point is to generate ideas without purpose, for the sake of generating ideas, follow seemingly nonsensical pathways and so forth. This simply maximises the quality and quantity of the idea pool.

Linking techniques can be used. Where everyday, novel and diverse objects are used to create connections with the endeavour.

What I have just done is codify creativity. Ask any group to come up with ideas related to a particular problem and they will produce a set quantity. Use the above three (each contains an infinite number of possibilities) and the group will produce more creative output.

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

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

This topic is 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. You can also receive a regular, free newsletter by entering your email address at this site.

Kal Bishop, MBA

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

You are free to reproduce this article as long as no changes are made and the author's name and site URL are retained.

Kal Bishop MBA is a management consultant based in London, UK. He has consulted in the visual media and software industries and for clients such as Toshiba and Transport for London. He has led Improv, creativity and innovation workshops, exhibited artwork in San Francisco, Los Angeles and London and written a number of screenplays. He is a passionate traveller. He can be reached on http://www.managing-creativity.com

---

The Art of Keeping a Journal

Journal keeping is basically without rules. It is an uncensored... Read More

Connect with Your Muse

Lately I've been discussing how to thrive as a creative... Read More

Top Ten Brainstorming Techniques for Business Success

We experience creativity every time a fresh idea pops into... Read More

Art of Creation with Attention

Attention is the greatest creative power in the world. If... Read More

Connect with Your Surroundings

Clutter is one of my favourite topics, and I've written... Read More

Tap the Creative Inside You

Imagination is the source of creativity. It's a place where... Read More

We Tend To Make Up Our Own Truths: What Stories Are You Making Up?

Someone once said that man keeps looking for truth that... Read More

The Source of Growth and Creativity

Bare attention (to objects, people and circumstances) is what brings... Read More

Overcoming Artists Block (Part 1)

How many times does an artist stare down at that... Read More

Sleep and Creativity

In my life, sleep is the number one way that... Read More

Three Ways Journaling Can Boost Your Creativity and Your Business

I have a friend who has struggled with her creativity... Read More

Should You Quit Your Job for Your Dream?

The next time you're moodily sitting in your office, wishing... Read More

Art, Artists and Vocation

"If you really want to upset your parents?go into the... Read More

Be Creative to Get Money

Creativity alone can make you money and no matter what... Read More

Creativity Management ? Finding Your Voice

Creativity can be defined as problem identification and idea generation... Read More

How To Master Your Game

Learn how to master your area of endeavor the right... Read More

The Healing Powers of Journaling

For the past several years, I have found joy working... Read More

Creating and Living Your Ideal Legacy

A legacy is more than a gift that lives on... Read More

Ideas

While the inception of penicillin brought a bit of a... Read More

Quiz -- Are You Creative?

Worried you may not be creative or you may not... Read More

Codifying Creativity

Can we codify creativity? Within these few words are a... Read More

Creativity Management ? Artists and Creativity

Creativity can be defined as problem identification and idea generation... Read More

You Dont Have To Be An Artist To Be Creative

Imagine that a block of ice has been set on... Read More

Mindfulness and Poetry: Delicious Word Awareness

Everyone's a poet.Of course, everyone's a critic, too! This means... Read More

Turning Obstacles Into Blessings

"Your capacity to be creatively alive in virtually all life... Read More

Stress VS Creativity

Now when I use the term "creativity", I mean the... Read More

Mind Mapping

Ever been on a project where you had trouble keeping... Read More

What Open Stage is Teaching Me About Life

After many years of performing as a vocalist, I switched... Read More

Creativity: The Key To Getting More Done In Less Time

If your to-do list seems as long at the end... Read More

How To Discover Hidden Talents Within You And Begin Appyling Them In Your Life Now

Have you decided it may be time to start creating... Read More

Break An Egg For Creativity

In 1420, the dignitaries of Florence held a competition.They offered... Read More

Creativity and Communication Lessons from Crossing the Street

Spring is in full bloom, which means it's 'get back... Read More

Creative Thinking The Secret Key To Lasting Success

What is creativity anyway? Well, let us look at the... Read More