Organizing Creativity in the Italian Fashion Industry

This study investigates the forces that influence creativity management in the Italian fashion industry. Adopting a qualitative approach, the authors examine how the tensions between creativity and business interests are confronted. Their findings show that balancing these tensions requires organizational integration mechanisms that are contingent upon cognitive distance and time constraints. The variables that explain the transition toward new organizational solutions are discussed, and the central function of liaison roles, as knowledge intermediation mechanisms, is highlighted. Suggestions for further research are proposed.