People often think that being creative requires the absence of all forms of regulations , boundaries or runes. However, across fields, the most
creative thinkers have a set of rules and regulations, which are either self-imposed or imposed by the organization they work for. As creative theorists Boden and Weisberg reiterate, creativity is grounded in ordinary mental processes.
Often, individuals or groups asked to come up with creative solutions have rules about the budget, deadline and objectives. However, it is not impossible to be creative with these rules in place. Many creative theorists comment that it's not 'thinking out of the box' that is required here but a drive to change the dimensions of the box from the inside.Contrary to popular belief, these rules put the individual or group in a more conducive position to think of creative solutions that can actually be implemented.
Breaking conventions through rules describes the work of a group of individuals who have the same deadlines, objectives and budget as any other person or group, but still manage to ideate and bring out creative solutions to problems. These creative solutions are not one-off situations but happen consistently with a particular type of group or individual.
The reason for the success of particular individuals and groups is because they employ a variety of unconventional tactics to arrive at a solution that is creative but well within the rules laid down. Whether they use methods like synectics or brainwriting, they are aware that, regardless of the rules in place, a creative solution requires them to draw from their experience in related and unrelated fields and combine these to form a solution that is practical and yet unique.
As far as the management and group leader is concerned, they must be aware of the rules that will enhance creativity or stifle it. A very specific expectation of the individual or group from the company leaves no place for self-expression or creative thought. However, it makes sense to give the group or individual a set of guidelines- things that they will have to keep in mind while ideating and formulating a solution. Important aspects like deadlines, the budget and some objectives will give individuals and groups a structure within which they can let their creativity run wild, but still be practical.
