The role of HRD in stimulating, supporting and sustaining creativity and innovation

Abstract Challenging environments call for creativity and innovation, dynamic processes that depend upon the interaction of the individual with the social and organizational environment, placing people issues in the foreground. Extant literature suggests a number of problems. First, the frequent confusion that surrounds what this actually means in practice. Second, regardless of the potential for all creative idea generation is not common for most individuals. Finally, successful exploitation of new ideas must overcome social and organizational barriers in the work environment. All are problems that HRD is well placed to address. Integration with creativity and innovation research is essential for HRD to effectively stimulate capability and commitment across multiple levels of the organizational system. An integrated review of literature sources supports the suggestion that integration remains in its infancy. This article proposes a synthesis of extant literature in the field of creativity and innovation with HRD leading to an exploration of practical implications.