Work from home and collective creativity: Exploring the experiences of IT professionals

Artikel

This study explores collective creativity in a work from home (WFH) context. A phenomenological approach is adopted to describe and understand employees' experiences of the phenomenon. Based on in-depth interviews with 10 Norwegian information technology (IT) professionals in the mature phase of the COVID-19 pandemic, the essence of the experience is captured and described as the "collective creativity paradox". The paradox suggests that while the absence of informal face-to-face (FTF) interaction in the WFH context hinders collective creativity, it is concurrently promoted through well-facilitated digital sessions. However, complex problem-solving is generally preferred to be conducted FTF. Perceived digital barriers inhibit knowledge sharing beyond strong-tie relations, which limits access to diverse perspectives and ideas. Moreover, the findings indicate that a supportive creative climate is crucial for fostering collective creativity in the WFH setting. The study offers scholars and managers a deeper understanding of collective creativity in digital work environments and provides valuable insights into employees' WFH experiences.

Object Details

• Language: Englisch

References and Relationships

• Bibliographic citation: Journal: Cogent Business & Management ; ISSN: 2331-1975 ; Volume: 10 ; Year: 2023 ; Issue: 3 ; Pages: 1-21

Classification and Topics

• Classification: Management
• Subject: collective creativity ; creative climate ; informal interaction ; phenomenology ; work from home

Contributors, Places and Time

• Event: Geistige Schöpfung
• (who): Tønnessen, Øystein ; Flåten, Bjørn-Tore
• Event: Veröffentlichung
• (who): Taylor & Francis
• (where): Abingdon
• (when): 2023

Further information

• DOI: doi:10.1080/23311975.2023.2262219
• Last update: 10.03.2025, 11:45 AM CET