Modeling creativity in social networks

Abstract

Studies on creativity, largely recognized as a precursor to innovation, have rapidly multiplied in the recent past. In particular, the impact of social network parameters on creativity has received increased attention. As an individual's social network regulates access to diverse ideas and perspectives, it has been observed to play a pivotal role in influencing creativity. In this paper, we propose a model which encapsulates the relationship between creativity and several social network parameters. We show that our model is consistent with the results of empirical studies in this domain. We also suggest how organizations could use our model to modify their network structure so as to boost creativity.