Playing the long game: Putting creativity at the heart of structure

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies.

Design/methodology/approach

This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context.

Findings

The pages of glossy business magazines are filled with long articles, short anecdotes, and visualizations of how Company A fosters creativity by allowing play time for employees, and how Company B has installed slides instead of stairs and offers free pizza. Indeed, it will not be long before one wacky start-up decides to put-up the bar and give all employees the rest of the year off to “ideate and channel their inner creativity”. The business magazines love showcasing these kinds of start-ups as people love to read about them – although there never seems to be many follow-ups in just how many of them saw their fifth year of activity after the cash from angel investors was burned through.

Practical implications

The paper provides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world’s leading organizations.

Originality/value

The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.

Citation

(2018), "Playing the long game: Putting creativity at the heart of structure", Strategic Direction, Vol. 34 No. 1, pp. 10-12. https://doi.org/10.1108/SD-10-2017-0151