5 Free Steps to a More Creative Workspace
By Linda Norris and Rainey Tisdale
Adapted from Creativity in Museum Practice (Left Coast Press, 2013)
1
Don’t hide those supplies. Keep supplies—markers, post-its, big rolls of paper, scissors, tape—out in the open so everyone can use them to prototype, share ideas, and get inspired.
2
Stop hoarding. Get rid of the clutter that’s preventing you—and everyone else—from making room for new ideas and ways of working. You know what we mean—those old exhibit labels, the broken computer, the unreturned ink cartridges, and out-of-date school brochures.
3
Spend some time observing your workspaces. Note how each space is used (or whether some spaces rarely get used at all). Then work with your colleagues on some small experiments (move a whiteboard here; add soft music there) that gradually transform your space into something that truly works for all of you.
4
Create spaces for collaboration and cross-pollination, but also spaces for one person to focus on uninterrupted quiet work or idea incubation. Set up an inspiration board (think Pinterest in person) for all to share.
5
Check out Make Space: How to Set the Stage for Creative Collaboration by Scott Doorley and Scott Witthoft (NJ Wiley, 2012) for more great ideas on remaking your spaces.
