Design, and Creativity

Innovation, Design, and Creativity

Innovation, design, and creativity are concepts which have unique implications of business decisions. Although these terms contain many fundamental similarities, each term can be applied in its own unique way. All members of an organization should be aware of proper usage and definition of these terms. The following paper is intended to outline the primary similarities and differences that can be found between innovation, design, and creativity as they relate to business settings.

Definition of Innovation, Design, and Creativity

Innovation is something that transforms ideas (Innovation Defined, 2010). Innovation involves not the creation of something new or unique, but the addition of something new or unique to an existing product, idea, or process. Innovation changes something but does not create anything, as creativity does. Indeed, for innovation to occur creativity must have already taken place. Design is the method of creatively transforming a thought process into a tangible, successful method of operating a product or service (Stamm, 2003). Creativity is "the tendency to generate or recognize ideas, alternatives, or possibilities that may be useful in solving problems, communicating with others, and entertaining ourselves and others" (What is Creativity, 2010). It's a frame of mind set, of normal thinking and encourages relationship to mold with ideas (Stamm, 2003).

Business Implications of Innovation, Design, and Creativity

Innovation, design, and creativity are words which pertain in today's business world. Companies need these elements to have a competitive and sustainable advantage. Innovative thinkers develop original designs and put it into action. In the world of technology, innovation refers to a degree in which employees will be able to maintain and develop upon the business's original product (Kim & Park, 2010). A designer requires resourceful thought processes in order to formulate a strategy that will be successful. Creative thinkers must have the capability to move beyond normal thinking to inspire and initiate inventive concepts (Stamm, 2003).

Comparison and Contrast of Innovation, Design, and Creativity

Identifying the likenesses and differences of innovation, design, and creativity can aid in understanding