The team creative process in biomimetics : a transactive memory theory perspective

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to shed some light on the team creative process in the context of biomimetics, a practice which holds the key to sustainable development. In order to do so, a qualitative case study research design was adopted. Observations, interviews and quantitative surveys served as the methods for data collection. A total of eight observation sessions and eight semi-structured interviews were carried out. Transactive Memory Theory was used as an observational lens for the interpretation of the research findings. Through thematic analysis, several main themes regarding the mechanisms through which the team creative process unfolds were brought forward. The literature review revealed that the relationship between creativity and biomimetics is not properly understood nor acknowledged. This was later corroborated through the empirical results of the study. Furthermore, the results revealed a strong correlation between team interaction and the creative output of the team and that developing a strong TMS facilitates team creativity. The study concludes by pointing out a need for researchers and practitioners to acknowledge the intimate relationship between creativity and biomimetics. In addition, it suggests developing biomimetic methodologies beyond a step-by-step framework, and aiming towards TMS development within biomimetic teams in order to increase the odds of achieving successful outcomes.