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

Øystein Tønnessen and Bjørn-Tore Flåten

Cogent Business & Management, 2023, vol. 10, issue 3, 2262219

Abstract: 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.

Date: 2023
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DOI: 10.1080/23311975.2023.2262219

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