Adaptors and innovators—Why new initiatives get blocked

Abstract The Adaption-Innovation theory is concerned with differences in the thinking style of individuals, with particular reference to creativity, problem solving and decision making. These concepts will have particular relevance for managers, since they focus on the interaction between people and their often changing work environment, offering managers new information on, and insight into, the personality aspects of change in organizations. This article explains the theory, outlines its background and development and reviews some of the research and current thinking which have emerged from studies using a widely tested measure—the Kirton Adaption-Innovation Inventory.

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