Time pressure and team member creativity within R&D projects: The role of learning orientation and knowledge sourcing

Abstract

This paper examines team member creativity within R&D projects and the influence of perceived time pressure on the creative process. A model based on the componential and knowledge sourcing perspectives is proposed to examine the effects of learning orientation, knowledge sourcing and perceived time pressure on team member creativity. The model is validated using a sample of 341 R&D project teams from 53 companies. Perceived time pressure has two effects on team member creativity: (1) a positive effect mediated by learning orientation and knowledge sourcing, where moderate levels of time pressure act as a trigger of the motivational and cognitive processes (i.e., challenging effect); and (2) a negative effect moderating the relationship between team member knowledge sourcing and creativity, where high levels of time pressure act as a constraint of cognitive processes (i.e., constraining effect). Findings show that learning orientation and knowledge sourcing behaviors play a central role in reducing team members' experience of time pressure and in fostering their creativity. There are important theoretical and practical implications relating to how team leaders may manage knowledge sourcing and time pressure within R&D projects to enhance team member creativity.