This month, creative membership network Arts & Business NI, in partnership with Ulster University Business School, showcased the value of creativity as both a skill and a mindset to unlock a culture of innovation within business.
At the event, ‘Creativity & Innovation in Business’, guests heard about the critical role creative thinking continues to play in helping businesses develop new ideas, adapt to change and new trends.
Professor Gillian Armstrong, Associate Dean (Development and Partnerships – Domestic) at Ulster University Business School said:
“Among its top ten skills of the future, the World Economic Forum highlights creative thinking as the second most in-demand skill by 2027. As we navigate an evolving workplace shaped by technological revolutions and embrace the opportunities associated with Artificial Intelligence, prioritising human and socio-emotional skills is critical.
Building partnerships across sectors will become increasingly important in developing hybrid thinkers who can thrive in this dynamic landscape. Community is essential for creativity and innovation and it’s inspiring to see how NI businesses are collaborating with the arts sector to cultivate their own creative communities that deliver impact.”
Guests at the event heard first-hand from businesses which have successfully partnered with arts organisations to help them tap into creativity and nurture it in their businesses. A&B NI Business of the Year 2024, Alchemy Technology Services shared their successful partnership with The Playhouse Theatre in Derry/Londonderry. The Playhouse was engaged to develop an ‘Art of Communication’ training course, which encouraged staff to explore their playful side and in doing so develop their sense of presence, listening and communication skills. Staff feedback was extremely positive, and the training contributed to their innovative company culture and encouraged collaboration.
Maeve McKervey, Head of Business at Arts & Business NI commented:
“We know from discussions with our business member network that as social, economic and environmental challenges continue, the role of culture and creativity in driving business innovation is of central importance.
Our members work with arts organisations for a wide range of reasons – to unlock new ways of thinking, connect with employees and communities, create a culture of collaboration and new ideas, challenge assumptions, stand out from the crowd and attract new audiences. By investing in creativity, businesses are investing in business innovation.”
To unlock your organisation’s creative potential, through partnership with the arts, get in touch with Arts & Business NI.
Find out more about partnership opportunities currently available across the A&BNI arts network here.
