Play-infused innovation

Abstract

Purpose - In my Master Thesis titled "Shaping an innovative play space," I was inspired by the realm of playground design, particularly the concept of 'adventure playgrounds' and their profound influence on creativity. I embarked on this journey to harness the power of play and apply it to the office context of VONK, the innovation center of the city of Rotterdam.

Design/methodology/approach - I adopted a comprehensive approach that delved deep into the intertwined concepts of play and innovation. Through literature reviews, hands-on observations, and user interviews, I aimed to uncover the nuances of these concepts, especially focusing on the overlapping themes of making and creativity.

Findings - My research illuminated the indispensable role of play in fostering attributes like confidence, creativity, problem-solving skills, a sense of belonging, cultural growth, and overall well-being. These findings underscored the potential of integrating play into professional settings to spur innovation. The research resulted in a theoretical framework of the interaction between the creative process and the environment. On this framework the insights from user and expert interviews where plotted, which lead to multifaceted opportunity and threat zones for VONK within this context. Based on these zones a possible roadmap was developed for the coming 10 years, including 5 horizons and playful idea suggestions tailored to the team of VONK to act according to these horizons.

Research limitations/implications - While the research provides valuable insights into the role of play in fostering innovation in office contexts, it is primarily based on the specific context of VONK. The findings might need adaptation when applied to different organizational settings. Also I have struggled with my personal process, as described in the personal reflection, which led to a suboptimal documentation of my findings.

Practical Implications - My insights suggest significant implications for VONK, the innovation hub of Rotterdam. By integrating the principles unearthed in my research, VONK has the potential to transform its space into a vibrant ecosystem that champions learning, experimentation, and innovation. For VONK, the research suggests a focus on co-creation, connecting actors, and project management. Organizing events, such as festivals or business fairs, can also serve as an effective strategy for showcasing achievements and expanding the network.

Value - This research offers a unique perspective on enhancing innovation in office contexts by leveraging the concept of play. It provides actionable insights for organizations like VONK, aiming to foster a more interconnected, innovative, and vibrant environment. The crux of my research lies in its potential to revolutionize the innovation landscape of VONK. By weaving in the principles of play, I believe we can usher in a new era of creativity and innovation, making VONK a beacon for innovators and pioneers.