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Searching outside the box in creative problem solving: The role of creative thinking skills and domain knowledge

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  • Montag-Smit, Tamara
  • Maertz, Carl P.

Abstract

This study provides evidence for how factual (directly relevant for developing creative solutions) vs. range (indirectly relevant) information can be used to provoke idea generation and effective creative outcomes. Data were obtained from 127 staff, faculty, and students at a private Midwest university. The results show that the effect of type of information was moderated by the participant's creative thinking skill and domain knowledge. For individuals high in creative thinking skill, range information improved idea generation originality, which in turn enhanced creative outcome novelty but reduced outcome usefulness. Factual information, under various conditions, both helped and hindered creative outcome usefulness. Overall, presenting information during idea generation can improve creative outcome effectiveness. Managers should be careful to present the appropriate information at the appropriate time, however.

Suggested Citation

  • Montag-Smit, Tamara & Maertz, Carl P., 2017. "Searching outside the box in creative problem solving: The role of creative thinking skills and domain knowledge," Journal of Business Research, Elsevier, vol. 81(C), pages 1-10.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jbrese:v:81:y:2017:i:c:p:1-10
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jbusres.2017.07.021
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Rampersad, Giselle, 2020. "Robot will take your job: Innovation for an era of artificial intelligence," Journal of Business Research, Elsevier, vol. 116(C), pages 68-74.
    2. Xingsen Li & Junlin Zeng & Haitao Liu & Peizhuang Wang, 2022. "Intelligent Problem Solving Model and its Cross Research Directions Based on Factor Space and Extenics," Annals of Data Science, Springer, vol. 9(3), pages 469-484, June.
    3. Ohlert, Simon & Laibach, Natalie & Harms, Rainer & Bröring, Stefanie, 2025. "Opportunity recognition in the tension field of knowledge and learning: The case of converging industries," Journal of Business Research, Elsevier, vol. 186(C).

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