A concept analysis of creativity: Uses of creativity in selected design journals

Abstract

To say that “creativity” and being “creative” are part of the job description of the interior designer is a point that most in the field would agree on. However, at best, the meanings of those terms are somewhat ambiguous when viewed collectively. The purpose of our work was to analyze the concept of creativity in order to determine conceptual components used by design scholars in the literature. Multiple definitions of the terms “creativity” and “creative” are used in design though most scholars do not explicitly define creativity. The components of creativity are used in such diverse ways that developing a single definition of the concept is not possible. Though there is some scholarship on creativity in interior design, further investigation will contribute to a significant body of knowledge. The lack of identified definitions of creativity restricts the ability for meta-analysis and theory development. © 2009, Interior Design Educators Council.