Innovation Creation Research Articles

Validation of the NEED assessment framework: an EU level Delphi study

Abstract The NEED (Needs Examination, Evaluation and Dissemination) assessment framework was developed to identify and measure health-related patient and societal unmet needs across different health conditions, supporting the creation of needs-driven healthcare policy and innovation. It includes 25 criteria of needs and 46 related indicators allowing to estimate if the needs are met. The current study aims to validate this framework on the EU level using a modified Delphi approach. The selection of national and European institutes invited to participate in the Delphi process was based on their respective roles; specifically, public health, health technology assessment (HTA), medicine authorisation, pricing and reimbursement (P&R), and patient advocacy. Through a modified Delphi approach, the experts were able to express their opinion on the framework structure (dimensions and domains), health-related needs criteria and indicators. Two Delphi rounds were performed using online questionnaires. Consensus was reached when 85% of the respondents agree or totally agree with a proposal and less than 5% of the respondents totally disagree. A panel of 27 experts participated in the first round of the study. The majority of the experts worked in HTA agencies (39%) and P&R agencies (24%), followed by national medicine authorities (9%) and umbrella patient organisations (9%). Seventeen EU Member States were represented, with a higher representation of experts from Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, The Netherlands, Spain and Sweden. Consensus was reached for 22 out of the 25 criteria and 41 out of the 46 indicators after the first round. The modified Delphi technique was an adequate approach to aid the validation of the NEED framework at the EU level. This represents an important first step in achieving consensus on how to define and identify unmet health-related needs and move towards a more needs-driven healthcare policy and innovation landscape. Key messages • Consensus on the definition and identification of unmet health-related needs is crucial to transform public health innovation. • Expert consultation by means of the Delphi technique assumed a pivotal role to reach consensus on the NEED framework.

Driving innovation in primary healthcare though co-creation with stakeholders in Switzerland

Abstract Issue/problem Primary healthcare systems worldwide face challenges such as socio-demographic shifts, increasing chronic diseases, rising costs, and workforce shortages, demanding innovative solutions for the future of primary care. Description of the problem Addressing the complex challenges of creating a resilient primary healthcare model involves considering interdependent factors such as health policies, funding, workforce training, technology, and evolving diseases, alongside diverse stakeholder interests. To tackle this, the ‘Health2040: Co-creation of a Future Outpatient Primary Healthcare Model in Switzerland’ project was launched in 2023 to develop a forward-looking model by integrating insights from various stakeholders. Results The project involved 40 stakeholders, including patients, researchers, healthcare professionals, policy-makers, and insurers, in two full-day workshops aimed at co-creating a vision and actionable framework for Switzerland’s future primary care. The first workshop focused on developing and visualizing potential models, while the second targeted the transition to these new models and the creation of an implementation plan. These sessions were underpinned by a comprehensive literature review on emerging primary care models, providing a scientific foundation for the discussions. Lessons Successful co-creation requires significant preparatory efforts and innovative creativity techniques, such as Future Newspapers, brainstorming, games, and user personas. Engaging stakeholders throughout various stages of the project helped to enhance relevance. Feedback from a steering group on the workshop’s concept, methodologies, and evidence synthesis was instrumental. Healthcare practitioners also contributed their insights on patient personas, ensuring the models developed were pertinent to actual healthcare practices. Stakeholder engagement process was essential for fostering innovative ideas and ensuring stakeholder buy-in for the developed solutions. Key messages • Co-creation with stakeholders is a promising way to develop innovative solutions for health systems. • Integrating stakeholder input is crucial at all the project stages, from preparation to evaluation.

Closed Circuit of 3-Dimensional Polymer Powders

This article describes the most important stages of testing the levels of innovative readiness of a new machine and material construction solutions for closed loops of polymer powders in 3D additive manufacturing. The aim of this study was to indicate the state and directions of development of the technology of geometric recycling of polymer powders in 3D additive manufacturing, the need to control the geometric quality of the powders, and the quality of the design of machines for their processing in a closed circuit. The method was aimed at creating a strategy and verifying the stages of development of a new idea for stabilizing the geometric and dynamic design features of polymer powders for additive manufacturing (3D printing). Connections and relationships of the variable design features of powders, machines and devices with variable postulated states of products and processes allowed for the analysis, knowledge, description and development of variables for stabilizing geometric features of polymer powders in recycling. The results show the possibilities of supporting innovative creativity according to the adopted method, allow for determining the level of compliance of the quality of the products of the technical system, the effectiveness of preparatory processes for recycling and the non-toxicity of the products and processes of the new technology and their closed loop. The goal of developing useful design values, according to an integrated method of analysis, assessment and environmental development, was achieved, including the proposal of design features of razor blade shredders, supported by genetic algorithms, and devices for stabilizing polymer powders in additive manufacturing with recycling.

NGO engagement in the creation of public service innovations: A configurational, explorative approach

IMPACT This article offers critical insights for practitioners interested in the evolving landscape of public service innovation. It highlights the significant role that non-governmental organizations (NGOs) play as co-creation partners in government innovation projects, with nearly half of surveyed NGOs participating in such initiatives. Importantly, the study shows that NGOs with experience in service innovation are more likely to collaborate with government, emphasizing the value of past innovation experience in fostering successful partnerships. The authors explain the motivations behind NGO engagement, revealing that improving user experience, gaining insights, and strengthening relationships with government are key drivers. The findings suggest that co-creation is not just about service improvement but also about capacity building for NGOs through knowledge transfer and learning opportunities. Practitioners will benefit from understanding these dynamics, which reinforce the principles of New Public Governance (NPG) by highlighting the importance of collaboration and network-based innovation.

Identity, Creativity and Alienation in the Context of Child and Art

The child avoids reflecting judgment on the specifics of what s/he sees because many things can change in the child’s eyes. The importance of exposing children to art early on and helping them to develop an aesthetic sense cannot, therefore, be overstated. Since they can focus on the details because they cannot grasp the whole, children can be excellent artists. However, many children are hesitant to share their creative thoughts and innovations due to the fact that they are concerned about how others might reflect on them. This study was motivated by the experience of writing a story after taking part in art and aesthetic sessions with elementary school pupils in an underprivileged area. There seem to be many similarities between what kids experience in the real world and the virtual one they create. The research’s findings indicate that children’s loneliness, alienation, and identity issues were reflected in their narratives.

Innovation in perspective: The role of creativity and open innovation in B2B, B2C, and B2G business models

This study explores how creativity and open innovation practices (inbound and outbound) influence product innovation and innovative performance in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Chile, using B2B, B2C, and B2G business models as moderating variables. Through empirical analysis based on a sample of 536 SMEs, we applied structural equation modeling to assess the relationship between creativity, open innovation practices, and their impact on product innovation. The results reveal that creativity significantly impacts product innovation and outbound practices, while inbound practices do not directly affect product innovation. Additionally, it was found that product innovation substantially improves the innovative performance of SMEs. This study contributes to the literature by demonstrating how specific open innovation practices and creativity can be leveraged to enhance innovation in SMEs. Adapting these practices should consider the particularities of different business models to maximize their effectiveness.

All-Epitaxial Self-Assembly of Silicon Color Centers Confined Within Sub-Nanometer Thin Layers Using Ultra-Low Temperature Epitaxy.

Silicon-based color-centers (SiCCs) have recently emerged as quantum-light sources that can be combined with telecom-range Si Photonics platforms. Unfortunately, using conventional SiCC fabrication schemes, deterministic control over the vertical emitter position is impossible due to the stochastic nature of the required ion-implantation(s). To overcome this bottleneck toward high-yield integration, a radically innovative creation method is demonstrated for various SiCCs with excellent optical quality, solely relying on the epitaxial growth of Si and C-doped Si at atypically-low temperatures in an ultra-clean growth environment. These telecom emitters can be confined within sub-nm thick epilayers embedded within a highly crystalline Si matrix at arbitrary vertical positions. Tuning growth conditions and doping, different well-known SiCC types can be selectively created, including W-centers, T-centers, G-centers, and, especially, a so far unidentified derivative of the latter, introduced as G'-center. The zero-phonon emission from G'-centers at ≈1300nm can be conveniently tuned by the C-concentration, leading to a systematic wavelength shift and linewidth narrowing toward low emitter densities, which makes both, the epitaxy-based fabrication and the G'-center particularly promising as integrable Si-based single-photon sources and spin-photon interfaces.

Anger and Art Ambivalent emotion in art

The present study investigates the depiction of anger in Western visual art, highlighting the paradox of this emotion: its inherent unpleasantness and repulsiveness versus its artistic representation. The authors examine historical transformations in the expression of anger and the mechanisms that render its depiction effective in art. Despite being a fundamental human emotion encountered from birth, anger is surprisingly scarce in Western visual art. Historical artworks often depict actions resulting from anger rather than capturing its raw emotional expression. Kelly Grovier's essay "Art of Feeling: Why We Should Celebrate Anger" posits that the rarity of anger’s depiction may stem from its classification as a deadly sin by early Christian teachings, which stigmatized the emotion. However, significant works such as Delacroix's "Medea" and Gentileschi's "Judith" juxtapose violent acts with serene facial expressions, underscoring a disconnect between action and emotional display. The repulsiveness and transformative impact of anger on human appearance make it a challenging subject for art. Yet, works like Cabanel's "Fallen Angel" and Gérôme's "Truth Coming Out of Her Well" explore this transformation, employing beauty to attract and distortion to repulse, thereby creating a Medusa-like effect. This duality engages viewers and evokes mixed emotions, which enhances an artwork's impact. Furthermore, anger can drive creative innovation, as demonstrated in works by Munch, Picasso, and Kahlo, where personal and societal grievances fuel artistic expression. However, prolonged anger may lead to destructive creativity, emphasizing the complex role of anger in art and its potential for both innovation and hostility. This multifaceted exploration underscores anger’s unique, albeit limited, place in visual arts and its dual capacity to repel and inspire.

Is creative thinking and innovation in teachers enough on their own? What happens if there is no entrepreneurship and reflective thinking?

This study aims to find the moderated mediation role of reflective thinking. It looks at the effect of teachers' creative thinking on innovation through entrepreneurship. This research adopts a quantitative approach, utilizing a descriptive and relational survey model. Four hundred and thirty-seven full-time teachers participated in the study. They were given questionnaires on creative thinking, reflective thinking, entrepreneurship, and innovation. Subsequently, empirical analyses were performed using a moderated mediation model. The research shows that teachers tend to have high scores in creative thinking, reflective thinking, entrepreneurship, and innovation. There is a positive and statistically significant relationship among these variables. Creative thinking indirectly boosts innovation through entrepreneurship. Reflective thinking moderates this process.

The Problem of Subjectivity in Algorithmic Creativity Organisation

The aim of the article is to study the issue of determining subjectivity, authorship and uniqueness of the results of producing the creative process, organised by the use of algorithmic calculations. Results. The article clarifies the possibility of organising the artistic and creative process using mathematical calculations, and automating the reproduction of certain manipulations, additionally, it reveals signs of the uniqueness of the corresponding generation results, and grounds the degree of automating the cultural process. The scientific novelty of the article is revealed in the process of highlighting technical assets of modern art, which, although slowly, nevertheless quite demonstratively show the potential of algorithmic computing as a stimulator of creative innovations. Among the methods used in the process of analysing the issues which are raised in the article, first of all, the analytical method has to be singled out, that is based on both historical and philosophical processes, as well as modern cultural activity. Conclusions. It is revealed that algorithmic creativity is actually a kind of mechanised production process, organised in accordance with the features of machine training, and the identified signs of stylistic imitation of traditional practices. Two types of practices for organising the corresponding creative process are established according to the degree of interaction of artists with robotic systems: practices where robotic mechanisms become “subjects of creativity”, that is they are able to produce content for organizing artistic processes; practices involving the equal interaction of robotic mechanisms and artists (for instance, in theatrical performances). The cultural process automation leads to the decrease in the artist’s participation, and weakening of his authorship, but he still has an absolute advantage in the thinking orientation. Interpretation of meaningful content is a critical problem in relevant practices. The usage of algorithms in creating art products challenges traditional methods of artistic cultural creation, as the artist’s meaning and intentions are not always clear. Evaluating further prospects for the artistic culture development requires taking into account these aspects, and recognising potential consequences of forming algorithmic creativity for the further cultural development of humanity.

Pendamping Literasi Keuangan dan Inovasi Produk Untuk Optimalisasi UMKM Sapu Lidi Melalui Program KKN di Desa Perkebunan Maryke

Community Service (KKN) in Perkebunan Maryke Village, Kutambaru District, Langkat Regency, was carried out by students of the Muhammadiyah University of North Sumatra from 12 to 27 August 2024. This program aims to improve the financial literacy of the community and optimize the potential of the broomstick MSME which is the main source of income for village residents. Through MSME mentoring activities, students conduct value chain analysis to improve production efficiency, product innovation, and more effective marketing strategies. This mentoring aims to increase the competitiveness of MSMEs and shorten distribution channels to a wider market. In addition, the financial literacy program in collaboration with Bank Sumut is also provided through workshops to teach the community, especially the younger generation, about the importance of saving, financial planning, and personal budget management. The results of this activity show an increase in community understanding of financial literacy and MSME management, as well as the creation of new innovations in broomstick products. This activity not only has an impact on increasing residents' income, but also strengthens social cohesion and sustainable village economic development. This program is expected to be a model for community empowerment in other rural areas.

Learning from innovative staff practices that led to virtual disability services using the lens of Complex Adaptive Systems

This paper draws on a Complex Adaptive Systems lens to develop an understanding of the staff practices that supported the development of Virtual Disability Services in Ireland amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The study involved twelve interviews with service providers, which were analysed using Reflexive Thematic Analysis, leading to two overarching themes. The first theme focuses on the logistics of constructing the response. This includes dynamic adaptiveness, technological readiness, a positive attitude towards technology, resource availability, digital skills, and the level of take-up. The second theme centres on the enacted response, which encompasses sensemaking, developing technological expertise, managing upward, fostering creative innovation, cultivating a systems sensibility, and creating conditions for psychological safety and authentic engagement. We conclude that staff practices are key for creating conditions conducive to safe spaces, sustaining well-being, and reshaping power dynamics and emphasise the importance of embracing technology as a tool for innovation within complex operating environments. POINTS OF INTEREST Virtual Services offered a good alternative to face-to-face services for some disabled people during COVID-19: they supported people to stay connected while self-isolating. Even though some staff and disabled people did not have many technology skills before COVID-19, they learned in real-time, using the resources available to them. Online relationships were seen as more equal as everyone was learning as they went. People with disabilities developed new skills and sometimes co-facilitated sessions. This gave them greater choice and control over how they interacted with services and changed power relationships within services. Having choices about how to access services is in line with enhancing rights and choice under the Convention of the Rights of People with Disabilities. Promoting digital inclusion may protect people against future societal disruptions.

Nanoart in STEAM education: Combining the microscopic and the creative

Abstract This article explores the integration of Nanoart within the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) education framework, highlighting its pivotal role in enhancing interdisciplinary learning. Through a detailed examination of a project-based learning (PBL) initiative, the study showcases students specializing in “Applied Physics and Nanomaterials” engaging in creating nanostructures via electrochemical etching and their subsequent transformation into Nanoart. This educational endeavor exemplifies the seamless integration of STEAM components—combining scientific principles, technological application, engineering design, artistic creativity, and mathematical precision—and significantly deepens students’ understanding of these elements. The article details each project phase, from conceptualization through execution, illustrating how students navigate the complexities of nanoscience and apply their interdisciplinary knowledge to produce tangible artistic and scientific outcomes. By transforming abstract scientific concepts into visually and intellectually stimulating Nanoart, the project encourages creative thinking and innovation among students. It further demonstrates how integrating art into STEM subjects can make scientific education more accessible and engaging, attracting a more comprehensive array of students and enriching their academic and practical experiences. Additionally, the study discusses the broader implications of Nanoart in STEAM education, emphasizing its effectiveness in bridging the gap between scientific exploration and artistic expression. It argues that this approach not only demystifies complex concepts but also fosters a holistic educational environment that prepares students to think critically and creatively across disciplines.

The mediating and moderating role of nursing information competence between nurses’ creative self-efficacy and innovation behavior in a specialized oncology hospital

ObjectiveThis study aims to examine the impact of nurses’ nursing information competence on their creative self-efficacy and innovation behavior, and to investigate its role as a mediating factor between these two elements.MethodsA survey was conducted from July to September 2023 involving 1,200 nurses from two tertiary-level oncology specialty hospitals in Beijing, selected through convenience sampling. Instruments used included the Creative Self-Efficacy Scale, Nursing Information Competence Assessment Scale, and Nurses’ Innovative Behavior Scale. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS 25.0 and R 4.1.2; AMOS26 was used to construct structural equation models and Bootstrap method was used to test the mediating hypotheses.ResultsOut of the distributed questionnaires, 1,166 were valid, yielding an effective response rate of 97.16%. Pearson correlation analysis revealed significant correlations between innovation self-efficacy, nursing information competence, and nurses’ innovative behaviors (P < 0.001). The Bootstrap method indicated that nursing information competence serves as a mediating factor in the relationship between creative self-efficacy and innovative behaviors, contributing to 24.5% of the observed effect. Additionally, regression analysis suggested that nursing information competence moderates the relationship between creative self-efficacy and innovation behavior.ConclusionThe findings suggest that nursing information competence not only mediates but also moderates the relationship between creative self-efficacy and innovative behavior. Enhancing nurses’ information competence could therefore foster creative self-efficacy, leading to an increase in innovative behavior and, subsequently, improvements in the quality of oncology nursing care.

Sublating Kant through Marx: Li Zehou’s Transformation of the Empirical to the Transcendental

AbstractIn this article, I aim to explore and demonstrate a specific mode of transcultural philosophical comparison by introducing an innovative theoretical model that I tentatively call the “method of sublation.” Through an illuminating case study centered around Li Zehou 李澤厚, a prominent figure credited with pioneering this method, its profound potential for generating creative innovation comes to light. Li Zehou skillfully combined Kant’s transcendental philosophy and Marx’s historical materialism, creating a unique synthesis that sublated traditional divides. This sublation elevates the empirical, seamlessly integrating it into the transcendental domain. The foundation of this paper lies in providing a concise yet comprehensive overview of the method’s theoretical underpinnings, closely followed by a meticulous dissection of its operational structure. A tangible application of the method is then vividly demonstrated through Li Zehou’s adept process of seamlessly sublating static Kantian a priori forms with the dynamic principles of Marxist social development theory, exemplifying the potency of this transformative approach in the realm of philosophy.

Artificial intelligence (AI) -integrated educational applications and college students’ creativity and academic emotions: students and teachers’ perceptions and attitudes

BackgroundIntegrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) in educational applications is becoming increasingly prevalent, bringing opportunities and challenges to the learning environment. While AI applications have the potential to enhance structured learning, they may also significantly impact students’ creativity and academic emotions.ObjectivesThis study aims to explore the effects of AI-integrated educational applications on college students’ creativity and academic emotions from the perspectives of both students and teachers. It also assessed undergraduate students’ and faculty’s attitudes to AI-integrated applications.MethodologyA mixed-method research design was used. In the first phase, a qualitative research approach was employed, utilizing theoretical sampling to select informants. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with undergraduate students and university lecturers to gain comprehensive insights into their experiences and perceptions. A scale was developed, validated, and administered to 120 students and faculty in the quantitative phase. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze the data.FindingsThe study revealed that AI applications often impose rigid frameworks that constrain creative thinking and innovation, leading to emotional disengagement due to AI interactions’ repetitive and impersonal nature. Additionally, constant AI assessments heightened performance anxiety, and technical frustrations disrupted the learning process. Conversely, AI applications stimulated creativity by introducing new ideas and problem-solving techniques, enhanced engagement through interactive elements, provided personalized feedback, and supported emotional well-being with gamified elements and constant availability. Quantitative data also verified that teachers and students have positive attitudes toward the benefits and challenges of these applications.ConclusionsAI integration in educational applications has a dual-edged impact on college students’ creativity and academic emotions. While there are notable benefits in stimulating creativity and enhancing engagement, significant challenges such as creativity constraints, emotional disengagement, and performance anxiety must be addressed. Balancing these factors requires thoughtful implementation and continuous evaluation to optimize the role of AI in education.

Investigating the Role of Leadership Styles on Organizational Culture and Innovation

Innovation and organizational environment are greatly influenced by leadership styles. Innovation-friendly workplaces are fostered by leaders because of their emphasis on inspiration and vision. The leaders place more emphasis on structure and compensation, which might have a distinct effect on organizational environment (OE) and creativity. The variations in leadership styles and how they are applied in various organizational settings. The connection among organizational environment, innovative creativity and leadership styles might be influenced by industry-specific aspects. The study’s aim is to comprehend how various leadership styles affect the organizational environment and corporate innovations (CI). This study included a total of 233 participants, including male (120) female (110) and non-binary/other (3) for leadership styles. Utilizing SPSS software, a statistical analysis of the data was carried out. The data was analyzed using a t-test, ANOVA, and regression analyses. These analysis demonstrated the leadership style fostering an innovative organization.The studyemphasizes the organizational environment and corporate innovationstrongly influenced by leadership styles. Creating an atmosphere that encourages creative thinking and a collaborative culture through leadership styles.

“Every idea made life easier:” A critical discourse analysis of creative employee-driven innovation in the Italian healthcare system

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to scrutinize the connection between creativity and innovation in the context of public healthcare. This is achieved by applying the theoretical concept of employee-driven innovation (EDI) to explore employees’ perceptions of their creative engagement in innovation processes, as well as to capture the managerial implications of setting up such processes in the sector.Design/methodology/approachA critical discourse analysis (CDA) is applied as a methodological lens to capture the interaction between the macro-level production and meso-level distribution of innovation discourse (top-down), and the micro-level perception of, and response to, the same (bottom-up). This study is based on a qualitative approach and is set in the public healthcare system of the Autonomous Province of Trento, Northeast Italy. In total, 26 semi-structured interviews were conducted with 22 healthcare professionals. For triangulation purposes, observation and document analysis were also performed.FindingsThe findings of this study reveal that tensions are present between the macro-level discourses and the meso-level strategies around innovation, and the micro-level perceptions of employees’ creative engagement in innovation processes. Healthcare professionals’ creative efforts are not easily recognized and supported by top management, which in turn does not receive a framework of reference in policies acknowledging the importance of human skills and creativity in innovation processes.Research limitations/implicationsThat this is a single case study implies a limitation on the generalizability of its results, but the results may nevertheless be transferable to similar empirical contexts. Therefore, a multiple case study design would be preferable in future studies in order to study EDI strategies and policies across various types of organizations in the public sector. Moreover, apart from CDA, other theoretical and methodological lenses can be applied to investigate the interaction between top-down organizing and bottom-up responses to innovation.Originality/valueThis study contributes to the EDI literature by providing a more integrative understanding of EDI in the public sector, demonstrating the importance of scrutinizing the interactions between employees and top-level management.

Analisis Antusias Mahasiswa dalam Belajar Ekonomi Kreatif dalam Mengembangkan UMKM: Usaha Mikro Kecil Menengah

Students' enthusiasm for developing MSMEs is influenced by studying the creative economy. Therefore, it is important to study creative economics because it opens students' insight into the potential of creative economics and innovation. This research uses a qualitative paradigm. The research was conducted to find out what enthusiasm students have in learning creative economics in developing MSMEs (Micro Small and Medium Enterprises). We took this research through interviews using three questions to students who were or were already running MSMEs. From the questions included, more students are interested in creating MSMEs after studying the creative economy and student creativity and innovation can develop further after studying the creative economy.

Sistematik Literatur Review dampak Kepercayaan Diri pada Kesuksesan Pengusaha

This study aims to examine the impact of self-confidence on entrepreneurial success through a systematic review of existing literature. Self-confidence is an important psychological factor in entrepreneurship, influencing risk-taking, innovation, persistence, and business performance. The research method used is a literature review involving the search and analysis of various relevant empirical studies. The results of the study indicate that high self-confidence is positively correlated with greater risk-taking ability, creativity in innovation, resilience in the face of failure, and achievement of better business performance. In addition, factors such as experience, education and entrepreneurial training, social support, and culture and economic climate are also found to play a significant role in shaping and strengthening entrepreneurial self-confidence. This study also identifies several challenges and gaps in previous research, such as variations in the definition and measurement of self-confidence, and the lack of qualitative and longitudinal approaches. Keywords: Self-confidence, Entrepreneurship, Entrepreneurial Success