Creativity vs Originality: The Dilemma

Christina Tziouvara

In the dilemma of creativity vs originality, we refer to two notions that overlap to a certain extent. In fact, originality is a subset within the quality of creativity. Undoubtedly, both these concepts are interwoven within the process of innovation.

Creativity vs Originality: Setting the Boundaries Between the Two

As creativity, we define the tendency characterized by the ability to examine through different standpoints. It is a concept associated with qualities related to effective problem solving; facilitating constructive communication; decision making; being open-minded, among others. It is a quality that extends to many other features with positive impact, both on personal and collective level.

The concept of originality describes the thought process, where existing knowledge has been filtered through personal perspective and channeled to a unique formation. Hence, originality encompasses elements linked to: a solid background of accurate information; acute skills of critical and independent thinking; and, pushing further the boundaries of established knowledge etc.

When Implemented in the Work Environment

Obviously, both notions represent thought processes that can be implemented in various frameworks, with a beneficial influence, including work.

In particular, encouraging a work culture with these two elements can only operate as a privilege for the implemented environment. In fact, original and creative thinking enhances independent work and their influence expands to teamwork performance as well. By extension, fostering such culture, within the company, will be reflected in its entrepreneurial activity. As innovation can maintain a company’s presence and course through competitiveness and entrepreneurship at large.

iED Academy cannot overlook the significance of individual elements and their contribution to entrepreneurial growth; therefore, there are scheduled courses to be announced. Keep an eye on the platform’s updates.

Encouraging and Undermining Factors of Creative and Original Thinking

Despite the advantages of these traits in a professional environment, there are conditions that can restrict them or facilitate them.

In particular, these are 4 management practices that can trigger creativity and originality:

  • Brainstorming techniques enable processes of creative and original thinking; as this method can lead to generating ideas and knowledge sharing.
  • Encourage employees to be independent and take initiative.
  • Motivate the employees to be productive.
  • Foster a supportive work environment.


On the other hand, these are 5 conditions that can impede them:

  • Encourage competitive attitudes among employees can have negative results on teamwork.
  • Not all attempts lead to success; hence, it is important not to handle failure as a discouraging factor.
  • Lack of flexibility to strict workplace policies.
  • Foster a climate of conformity.
  • Lack of acknowledgment and reward, in terms of creative and original thinking


Admittedly, both qualities associate with open minded mentality and innovation. Therefore, fostering these elements can be fruitful in the frame implemented. Hence, the dilemma of creativity vs originality will be probably remain with no decisive answer; as, both are remarkable tendencies worth cultivating in any frame.