Includes bibliographical references.

The case for creative planning -- Top management's role and benefits: a chapter for presidents -- Understanding creativity, or delving into the mind of a genius -- The creative planning process -- Techniques for imaginative strategic thinking -- Group creativity, evaluation, and planning -- Creative planning with large groups -- Creative departmental planning -- How and when to start.

Highly successful companies are innovators. Perhaps the most persuasive case for creativity in business was made by John F. Welch, who at the age of 45 became chairman of the board at General Electric. In his April 26, 1984, speech at Cornell University entitled, "Competitiveness from Within- -Beyond Incrementalism," Welch called for a new spirit of entrepreneurship.