Intelligent CIO Middle East Issue 52 | Page 77

/////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// No. 5: Think analog Although using the latest technology to make IT decisions might seem obvious, sometimes analog is a better approach to creative thinking. The reality is that computer screens are finite and small in size and have frequent pop-up interruptions. Instead, use an entire office wall to draw plans for the new year or design your next organisation using LEGO blocks. Use the minifigures metaphorically: Who are the divers, workers and superheroes? No. 6: Broaden digital Mark Raskino, Distinguished VP Analyst, Gartner Redefine the organisation’s definition of transformation. A narrowly defined goal will limit results and insights. Try using one new management technique from a successful digital giant and add one bleeding-edge initiative to your 2020 portfolio. “ t cht lk STOP APOLOGISING FOR THINGS LIKE LOVING IT AND BEING A ‘GEEK’. No. 7: Resource diversely With a global shortage of necessary IT talent, expand how you hire new talent. Establish a relationship with at least one educational institution or technology training programme. See how you can invest in their programme to support future skills and create a talent pipeline. No. 8: Become ‘sino-wise’ With China becoming a leading global innovator at scale, organisations should be preparing for how that will affect their business. Becoming sino-wise – which refers to becoming familiar with the culture and ancient-to-modern history of China – could mean anything from learning Mandarin or reading about modern Chinese history to organising tours of Chinese digital giants. No. 9: Get multimentored Mentoring can be an effective, and low- effort, way to gain new skills. But there are opportunities to mentor beyond the traditional. Consider auditing a university class or spending a day shadowing an entry- level employee. Both will give you new skills and a new perspective. No. 10: Make time to directly experience new technologies This reminder resolution is included every year because it is so easy for a CIO’s time to become fully consumed by the process and bureaucracy of corporate life. But the organisation looks to the CIO for innovation and information on emerging trends. Some of this can be delegated, but CIOs should set aside time to see demos and try out new technology, as well as protect a small piece of the budget for purchasing new technologies for the office and allowing the team to play. n www.intelligentcio.com INTELLIGENTCIO 77