What: HBR argues that asynchronous work fuels creativity by allowing underrepresented voices to express themselves.

Why it is important: Such an approach to work is common among the younger generation, and employers need to adapt their productivity levels by making the most of these new methods, and not just undergo them.

The article discusses research conducted by Aruna Ranganathan, which analyzes the impact of asynchronous work on creativity.

The study found that asynchronous work allows underrepresented voices, particularly women, to express themselves without fear of being criticized or interrupted and can lead to better creative performance. While synchronous teamwork may decrease coordination costs, it also inhibits the expression of new or risky ideas, ultimately making teams less equal and their output less creative.

The study's findings show that asynchronous restructuring of at least some tasks is an effective and feasible solution to inequality in creative teams, as it enables greater creative freedom and provides a way forward to a more equitable future of work.

Asynchronous work can fuel creativity