Ample correlational research shows that leader support for creativity is related to subordinate creativity, yet research examining the causality of this relationship experimentally is scant. Furthermore, most studies that demonstrate support for this relationship have used relatively subjective creativity measures that do not tap as effectively…

This investigation evaluated the degree to which creativity training, idea generation instruction, and creative process impacted idea production, creativeness of solutions, and leadership effectiveness. Three sets of hypotheses were tested with a 114 groups of adults. First, groups whose members had some (i.e., one CPS course) or advanced training…

A study examined the distinguishing characteristics of 37 successful creative problem-solving (CPS) facilitators. Common traits included flexibility, ability to lead a CPS session successfully, confidence in the process, involving the right people, listening to the client and resource members, and interpersonal and group-dynamic skills. (Author/CR)

Managers (n=112) from a large international consumer goods manufacturer participated in a field experiment in which they learned and applied the Simplex process of creative thinking to solve real management problems. Behavioral skill in generating quantity of options was the most important variable to the creative process. (Contains references.)…

Preliminary analysis of data collected from trained expert facilitators of ad hoc creative teams (n=43) found that complex analytical techniques such as costed function modeling and decision criteria matrix may have far more impact upon a team's creative effectiveness than frequently researched measures such as idea quantity. (Contains…

The article describes four step-by-step methods to sharpen intuitive capacities for problem-solving and innovation. Visionary and transpersonal knowledge processes are tapped to gain access to relatively deep levels of intuition. The methods are considered useful for overcoming internal blockages or resistance, developing organizational mission…

Sixty graduate students sorted stories according to three dimensions for classifying analogies: (1) physical similarity; (2) similarity in goals; and (3) whether the analogy leads to a reformulation of the question. High interrater agreement supports the use of the three dimensions to understand earlier inconsistent results in analogical problem…

Considers how peoples' creative problem-solving efforts are influenced by organizational characteristics. Examines the situations which call for creative problem solving at work and describes the kinds of processes people must apply to solve these problems. Reviews organizational variables that help or hinder these processes. (Author/CR)

Eleven professionals participated in a weekend workshop called "Planned Spontaneity." Using techniques of group mental imagery, the group focused on ways of empowering individuals in educational settings to increase their use of creative mental capacities. The group agenda, activities, process, and resulting product are described. (JW)

Transcripts from three problem-solving discussions involving eight or fewer social scientists were analyzed by nonlinear regression to determine whether the groups' productivity was chaotic over time. It was shown that the productivity was chaotic, correlated with the number of active discussion threads, and dependent on the discussion…

An experiment was conducted to investigate the innovative performance of problem solving groups (n=196) with three different blends of cognitive styles. As predicted, groups with a heterogeneous blend of styles outperformed groups with completely or partially homogeneous blends. Participant satisfaction, however, was lower for heterogeneous teams.…

A study of 94 intact autonomous work groups performing multi-part tasks revealed that group creative performance increased exponentially with the number of highly creative group members composing the group. However, this occurred only when Team Creativity-Relevant Processes within the group were relatively high. (Contains references.) (Author/CR)

Managers can improve their decision making skills through training in organizational communication which emphasizes the intuitive processes. The article describes the role of intuitive processes in executive decision making and outlines the four levels of a taxonomy for developing intuition as it relates to creative thinking and problem solving.…

An instrument for self-analysis of creative problem-solving style is introduced. A circular flow model of dynamic tension establishes a profile based on one's orientation toward generation, conceptualization, implementation, and optimization of knowledge. Preliminary tests with 130 businesspeople and undergraduate students indicate high…

University security officers (n=34) played a simulation game designed to evaluate emergent leadership in a problem-solving situation. Both facilitative leadership style and individual creative contribution were found to make significant contributions to group members' perceptions of leadership. Implications are drawn for personnel selection,…