These cases show leaders tapping into informal creative processes to develop a more proactive and powerful flow of new ideas. I argue that an over-reliance on formal creative processes will not produce a flow of effective creativity. A more subtle appreciation of the importance of informal interactions and creative chaos is required. When you next eat at the staff canteen, notice what is really happening. It could be that you are looking at the creative hub of the business.
Leaders have a long history of introducing more order.
Ken Hudson lectures at the University of Technology, Sydney, and is founder of The Idea Centre. Four insiders tell how to choose a management consultant. Interviews by Deborah Tarrant .