A Critical Comparison of Two Creativity Methods for Fostering Participatory Innovation: Implications to Improve TRIZ

Abstract

We present an empirical study in which we contrast two creativity methods, the lateral thinking method and the improvisational theatre method, to investigate their applicability for advancing participatory innovation. While both of the contrasted methods aim to increase creativity as a means of improving participative innovation, they differ in terms of their conceptualisations of creativity, goals and processes. We propose that these two methods could complement the weaknesses of the TRIZ method (theory of inventive problem solving), especially in cases in which diverse experts gather to innovate, solve problems and generate new knowledge for shared goals. We illustrate the utilisation of the methods by reporting two creative development workshops. The paper sheds light on methods for fostering creative participatory innovation and highlights the collective nature of co-creation in participatory innovation. In addition, the paper suggests how the studied participative co-creative methods could be useful in improving the TRIZ method.