Building organisational culture that stimulates creativity and innovation

• Published in: European journal of innovation management Vol. 6; no. 1; pp. 64 - 74
• Main Authors: Martins, E.C, Terblanche, F
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Bradford MCB UP Ltd 01.03.2003; Emerald Group Publishing Limited
• Subjects: Attitudes; Communication; Corporate culture; Creativity; Decision making; Influence; Innovation; Innovations; Organisational culture; Organization theory; Studies; System theory; Systems stability; Attitudes; Innovation; Creativity; Organisational culture
• ISSN: 1460-1060; 1758-7115
• DOI: 10.1108/14601060310456337

The purpose of this article is to present, by means of a model, the determinants of organisational culture which influence creativity and innovation. A literature study showed that a model, based on the open systems theory and the work of Schein, can offer a holistic approach in describing organisational culture. The relationship between creativity, innovation and culture is discussed in this context. Against the background of this model, the determinants of organisational culture were identified. The determinants are strategy, structure, support mechanisms, behaviour that encourages innovation, and open communication. The influence of each determinant on creativity and innovation is discussed. Values, norms and beliefs that play a role in creativity and innovation can either support or inhibit creativity and innovation depending on how they influence individual and group behaviour. This is also explained in the article.