Experts and creativity in programming

This research aims to explore the intricate relationships between creativity and programming, encouraging programmers to embrace a more creative approach to their work. It is based on answering the question, “How do experts perceive creativity in programming”. There is not much research in the area of creativity and programming, and this work bridges the gap between academia and my community of practice. In order to have a better understanding of the role of creativity in programming, I conducted a qualitative cross-sectional study where I collected information from sixteen expert programmers using semi-structured interviews. The transcripts produced 163,806 words leading to the interpretation of participants’ experiences using Applied Thematic Analysis (ATA). Initially, I produced 164 codes organized into sub-themes, originating seven main themes analysed in their relationship with creativity in programming: creativity, programming code, expertise, innovation, learning and development and impact. This study identified the participants’ perception of creativity in programming code and inferred that creativity is one of the characteristics that software developers can have that becomes a competitive advantage for modern organizations. In general, this research aims to contribute to the development of creativity in the field of programming and offer practical insights and recommendations to promote creativity, innovation, and excellence in the practice of software development.