A recent report commissioned by Adobe, The Creativity Dividend, Forresters 2014, produced some interesting data about the impact/ benefits of investing in creativity. The basis of the research was to ask: Does creativity impact the bottom line, and do companies experience more business success because they foster creativity?
As a Creative Facilitator I see regularly the power of creative thinking through my workshops, but my view may be seen as biased, so this research report was more than welcome.
Here are some of the major findings:
More companies that foster creativity achieve exceptional revenue growth than peers
More creative companies enjoy greater market share and competitive leadership
More creative companies win recognition as a best place to work
More companies that foster creativity achieve notable revenue growth when compared with peers.
Creativity thrives with leadership support
82% agreed that creativity was good for business but far fewer, 11%, regarded themselves as creative.
(Please note creative companies are those which have fostered creativity, it does not refer to any particular industry sector).
From the headlines above the business benefits are clear- there is a clear, financial, Creativity Dividend for companies who are proactive in developing a creative organisation. Creative thinking skills and mindset are key in this.
“Asking employees to “be more creative” won’t change anything without incorporating creative tasks, tools, and techniques into business strategy and execution”
The role of the leader is also crucially important in leading the way and creating an environment that fosters innovation.
“When a CEO fosters creativity and puts the resources and funding in place to support it throughout the company, it can change the whole focus,”
So what does a creative organisation look like in reality?
“Many described creative companies as more willing to pursue the unconventional, push limits, and try new things — and that people who work at these firms are never satisfied with the first attempt. They see creative companies as more collaborative and involved with their customers. Leadership at creative firms, they believe, invests resources specifically in creativity and accepts failure as a byproduct of any business pursuit.”
If this appeals to you please get in touch. My work is all about fostering creativity in organisations by providing practical skills and working alongside leaders to make the change they want to see.
Don’t be one of the 71% who know it’s the key to growth and increase in market share and doesn’t do anything about it.
Pick up the phone and let’s chat. Courses start from as little as £750.
Copy of report available on request.