Computer use and creativity

An attempt was made to explore the connections between creativity and computer use using in-depth interviews. A sample of people in various occupations were asked how and why they used the computer at work, how they had learnt to use it, how use of this new technology had changed their work, and what their general views were on the spread of computers. Analysis of the interviews led to the conclusion that the scope offered by the new technology is being exploited more fully by those in more creative jobs, but the method of computer use depends not only creative opportunities in the work but on the character of the occupation. There is an example of this in the difference between artists and technicians. The former may be more creative traditionally, but the character of their work means they have less use for computers than the less artistic technicians, for whom using the latest technology is essential..