When discussing the digital realm, Heinig noted that people often think of computer science, but in reality, “digital” refers to “any phenomenon resulting from the convergence of one or more exponential technologies.”
What are these technologies?
Heinig provided an overview: linear learning, virtual assistants, human reasoning (cyborgs), automation, big data, biotechnology, blockchain, cybersecurity, smart cities, quantum computing, cloud computing, drones, renewable energy, 3D printers, brain-computer interfaces, the Internet of Things, nanotechnology, virtual and augmented reality, advanced robotics, technological singularity, and autonomous vehicles.
Pablo Heinigis a professor of Critical and Creative Thinking in the Master’s Program in Creativity, Innovation, and Communication. He also serves as a professor in the Human Resources department at ESADE (Buenos Aires), secretary general of ITIUM within the Ibero-American Network of Leisure Studies Centers, and director of the Entertainment Industry Management Program at the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA). In addition, he holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the National University of Córdoba.
“Can anyone change the challenges the world is presenting us with?” Heinig asked the audience. “No, they can’t. All we can do is develop new resources and skills so we don’t perish in the attempt.”
If Nietzsche were alive today, he would say, “The death of God.” With this technological revolution, we have become gods: we can be in multiple places at once, and things happen in the blink of an eye. And it’s not enough for us—we want more and more.
First, we need to adopt the technology. “Is adopting the technology enough? No. We’re going to have to develop new leadership models and meta-skills to be able to navigate this entire process.”
This new leadership model, which we call " digital vortex leadership," has three main pillars:
- Hyper-awareness: With every new technology that emerges, we must quickly ask ourselves how it impacts our internal customers, our external customers, and our day-to-day operations.
- Data-driven decision-making.
- Fast execution.
What qualities should this new leader possess?
- Commitment: always be willing to listen.
- Humility: admitting that others know more than you do.
- Flexibility: the ability to change your mind about things when the facts contradict your original opinion.
- Vision: Having a clear vision is more important than a detailed plan.
“A meta-competency is a skill so powerful that it enables you to acquire others, or that brings out the value in others,” Heinig summarized, while mentioning: managing rationality, managing emotions, managing physicality, listening skills, managing trust, designing and managing conversations and high-performance meetings, coordinating actions, negotiation and decision-making in the moment, managing disruptive innovation, managing personal, group, and organizational change, and managing creative tension.
This breakfast was organized by IAB in collaboration with the School of Graduate Studies and professional development the university’s School of Communication and Design.
https://youtu.be/Szudr9T0Rqo