The elusive act of synthesis

Abstract

In engineering design it is necessary not only to find creative solutions to problems, but to be able to do so without introducing unacceptable levels of risk into the process. This paper studies how engineering firms use creativity within a Business Process Excellence framework, through a case study of diesel engine design. Overall it appears that the emphasis on reliable and repeatable processes causes creativity to be displaced backwards into R&D and forwards into "emergency innovation" during integration.