I'm in engineering, and had similar discussion with an artist. Who does not see the creativity in sciences. When driving something to production, we cannot afford to have everyone being creative without boundaries. We plan creative sessions, identifying mission statements and scope. To avoid scope creep and going beyond boundaries. Without a plan, when do you schedule creative sessions, who is involved, what is included and excluded, when do you know when your complete? You'd be spinning your wheels. Seen it happen too many times. Maybe work in textbooks but see the reality...
Again insights come first then comes inventions of science. Science is a product of creativity. Yes, for the insights to be manifested we need to play a timebound game called 'Goal'. Otherwise manifestation may not be possible. Goal setting includes timeframe. Planning and execution all needs to be done timely way. Otherwise goals may become indefinite. No timeframe is almost equal to no goal. 'S . M . A . R . T' - goal setting :
I've been involved with major corp re-engineering projects at ground level. Seen so many fail due to scope creep from to many people given creativity authority, lack of planning. Individuals will have their own agenda protecting their domain. Creativity can be detrimental to success when in the wrong hands.
Moderation is the common sense. Anything beyond proposition is a trouble. Creativity and systematic approach has to be applied in moderation/balanced way. Overlooking anything wont work. Common sense is to go either with what works or make things workable first. Rowing on both sides simultaneously moves the boat forward, otherwise it will be circling.
With experience you'll see which way it leans. Budgets have a way of weighing on the out come. Lack of (perceived) knowledge will force decisions until the outcome is unrecognizable from the original plan. Oh yeah, they were to busy being creative to adhere to the plan. Creativity must stop at a certain point to advance or it's like trying to hit a moving target. Know your dependencies to move forward. Analysis paralysis can appear at the initial stages and jump up and bite you were the sun doesn't shine, bogged down with creativity