The Digital Mindset: What It Really Takes to Thrive in the Age of Data, Algorithms, and AI

Leaders flummoxed by technological disruption should focus on developing a digital mindset rather than a technical skillset, according to this savvy primer. Harvard Business School professor Neeley (Remote Work Revolution) and technology management professor Leonardi (Technology Choices) write that while some leaders may feel as though the many digital hurdles are too great, all they really need is “the courage to be humble, admit... what you don’t know, and set out on the path to learning it.” The competencies they call for are based on research on hundreds of “technology-enabled organizations,” and readers will leave with a solid understanding of what artificial intelligence is, the difference between machine learning and deep learning, and how to cultivate a digital presence, communicate effectively even remotely, and get a grip on cybersecurity. The authors argue that developing a digital mindset means knowing where data came from and what questions to ask of it, and their practical focus on getting leaders comfortable with learning should pay dividends. This comprehensive, plainspoken guide will be a godsend to leaders trying to tell a blockchain from a bitmap. (Apr.)