Innovation-focused leadership: A grounded theory model to enhance creative idea generation, evaluation, and adoption competencies through arts-based training in theatrical improvisation
Open Access
- Author:
- Waldhier, Michael
- Graduate Program:
- Workforce Education and Development
- Degree:
- Doctor of Philosophy
- Document Type:
- Dissertation
- Date of Defense:
- June 06, 2023
- Committee Members:
- Wesley Donahue, Major Field Member
William Brendel, Major Field Member
Hyung Joon Yoon, Chair & Dissertation Advisor
Heather Zimmerman, Professor in Charge/Director of Graduate Studies
Glen Kreiner, Special Member
Brian Cameron, Outside Unit & Field Member - Keywords:
- improvisation
creativity
leadership
innovation
grounded theory
improvisation
creativity
leadership
innovation
grounded theory
idea evaluation - Abstract:
- The purpose of this study is to explore the process by which arts-based training in theatrical improvisation leads to improvements in creative and leadership competencies among organizational leaders, to support not only creative idea generation and brainstorming, but also idea evaluation and adoption, all of which are required steps for successful workplace and organizational innovation. Fifteen participants were identified across a broad range of industries who had not only previously completed theatrical improvisation training, but who were also in senior leadership positions and responsible for creative idea development and evaluation within their organizations. Interviews followed a semi-structured format and included questions regarding leadership skills and creativity, review of capabilities before and after improvisation training, perceptions of improvisation and innovation in the workplace, and applicability of improvisation principles in organizations, with particular focus on innovation and the ability to evaluate and adopt new ideas and creative solutions. A constructivist grounded theory approach was followed to understand participant perspectives and illuminate an emergent theory to explain how leaders of creative teams use improvisation skills and techniques to succeed in their roles. An understanding of these processes ultimately formed the basis for a new theory of creative leadership that focuses not on top-down decision-making, but rather on five critical tenets of the theatrical metaphor of improvisation: non-judgmental evaluation; bi-directional understanding; co-creation and development; releasing confounding failure; and encouraging personal growth.