ENT 2612 - Creativity and Innovation in the Business Environment

3 credits
This course delves into the essential role that creativity and idea generation play in the innovation process, particularly within entrepreneurial contexts. Students will explore the theoretical foundations of creativity and innovation, examining how individual traits and organizational processes can enhance creative thinking. Through a combination of experiential learning assignments and practical exercises, students will develop the skills and confidence needed to generate innovative solutions. The course emphasizes both individual and team-based approaches, allowing students to apply their learning to real-world scenarios and understand the dynamics of creative collaboration.

Key topics include the processes of creativity, ideation, and innovation, as well as the characteristics and traits of creative individuals. The course will also cover how diversity and individual differences impact creative thinking and innovation within organizations. Students will learn to identify barriers to creativity and explore how physical spaces and environments can facilitate ideation. Additionally, the course will differentiate between organizational factors and leadership attributes that either foster or inhibit creativity and innovation. By understanding these elements, students will be better equipped to navigate and influence their organizational environments effectively.

A significant focus of the course is on the practical application of creativity and innovation in startup development. Students will learn how to pivot and adapt business models in response to changing market conditions and internal company dynamics, such as productivity, quality, funding, and cash flow. The course will also cover models of design thinking, decision-making, and creative problem-solving, providing students with a comprehensive toolkit for generating and implementing innovative ideas. By the end of the course, students will be able to demonstrate their ability to produce creative solutions that drive innovation and address complex business challenges.