Accessing ideas to develop leadership and organization

PurposeTo measure, group, and understand the role of ideas in the workplace.Design/methodology/approachThe study carries out a cluster analysis of what managers say is happening to ideas in their workplace.FindingsThis pilot study finds that the role of ideas, their interaction, and progression across organizations and workplaces can be identified and measured. It provides a way of identifying group mindsets and a medium for understanding and addressing orthodoxy.Research limitations/implicationsThe main implication is to gain a practical understanding of the role of ideas in any group's performance. The questions about ideas are widely applicable across groups. The research was also limited by its sample size.Practical implicationsBy identifying how ideas are currently addressed, the approach is available for a wide range of group situations in organizations and across disciplines. It can be used to recognize, harness and improve the contribution of disparate ideas to performance and outcomes.Originality/valueThe article's originality is in its focus on the role of ideas in organization and society. The study highlights the role of idea interaction and progression, invaluable in integrating the development of the theory and practice of leadership, organization and management.