Short-time non-work-related computing and creative performance

Abstract

It has been argued that non-work-related computing (NWRC) takes time away from work and, hence, decreases work productivity. On the other hand, it has also been claimed that short-time non-work-related computing (STNWRC) (a maximum of 15 minutes), has a positive impact on work productivity, including relief from boredom, higher creativity, and the underlying recovery mechanisms. To examine the impact of STNWRC on creative performance, we draw on Fredrickson's broaden-and-build theory, the concept of recovery with mental well-being and low cognitive effort. A 2 × 2 factorial experiment with 40 subjects was conducted. The results indicate that STNWRC has a positive effect on creative performance, when people have mental fatigue. In the post hoc analysis, STNWRC with low cognitive effort has a greater positive effect on creative performance. As a research implication, we suggest that organizations need to encourage employees to use STNWRC as a recovery tool when employees have mental fatigue.