A descriptive model of innovation and creativity in organizations: a synthesis of research and practice

Based on a review of the reported theoretical advances that are affirmed by empirical works from published management practice, this paper finds that innovation is an outcome of an intentional and designed effort of the organization, and synthesizes the findings for enhancing creativity and innovation by developing three antecedents that positively influence innovation in organizations: (1) the garnered knowledge, (2) the presence of a knowledge-supporting culture, and (3) the accumulation of social capital. The paper also provides a summary of transferable management practices that organizations are employing to enhance innovation and productivity. Knowledge Management Research & Practice (2008) 6, 298-311. doi:10.1057/kmrp.2008.18