Welcome to October 2024’s edition of “Book of the Month.” This month, we’re enjoying some time in the fall sun and the local library diving into Laura Madsen’s “AI & The Data Revolution.”
The central theme of this book is the management and impact of artificial intelligence (AI) disruption in the workplace. Madsen shares her personal experiences with disruption early on, frequently referencing them throughout the book. This personal touch provides a solid foundation for her arguments. One of the key concepts she introduces is the different roles people play during disruptive times, categorized as “keeper,” “optimizer,” and “disruptor.” Madsen profiles these personas in detail, offering valuable guidance on leveraging these roles amidst chaos and change.
Madsen also digs into the critical topic of governance, specifically data governance and AI governance. She explains how individuals with a disruptor mindset might struggle with governance, underscoring the importance of “keepers” and “optimizers” as described earlier. In the chapter titled “Governance with a Capital G,” Madsen discusses AI governance, emphasizing the need for flexibility and simplicity, while also highlighting the importance of adhering to external regulations and internal policies. Given that AI governance is a relatively new field, Madsen’s insights, grounded in her extensive experience, provide readers with a strong foundation to develop their own organizational policies and procedures.
A key topic to consider when using any new technology or tool is the adage, “A fool with a tool is still a fool.” Madsen addresses this with the memorable phrase, “Let’s not do dumb stuff faster.” While this isn’t a central theme of the book, it’s a crucial point she makes early on, providing context throughout her discussion on disruption. This idea ties seamlessly into the modified maturity model she presents later in the book, which progresses from chaos to defined, repeatable, managed, and finally optimized stages. Throughout this progression, Madsen emphasizes the importance of balancing the roles of optimizer, keeper, and disruptor.
One of the whimsical features of Madsen’s book is her frequent references to pop culture, particularly song lyrics. These nostalgic nods not only add a layer of charm but also make the content more relatable and engaging. It’s refreshing to see a business book that incorporates such playful elements, making complex topics more accessible and enjoyable. Madsen’s ability to weave these references seamlessly into her narrative keeps the reader entertained and enraptured, providing a delightful break from the more technical aspects of the book.
In addition to the themes already discussed, Madsen also explores the ethical and regulatory landscape surrounding AI and data privacy. She provides a nuanced view of how organizations can navigate these challenges while leveraging AI to drive innovation. Another significant theme is the concept of technical debt and how it can hinder innovation if not addressed properly. Madsen offers practical advice on creating a sustainable model for technology disruption, ensuring that organizations can adapt and thrive in the evolving artificial intelligence landscape.
In conclusion, Laura Madsen’s “AI & The Data Revolution” is a compelling read that blends personal anecdotes, practical advice, and a touch of whimsy to explore the complexities of AI disruption in the workplace. Her insights into the roles of keepers, optimizers, and disruptors, along with her discussion on governance, particularly AI governance, provide a foundation for navigating the disruption brought by AI. Madsen’s engaging writing style, enriched with pop culture references, makes this book not only informative but also enjoyable. Whether you’re in the trenches, leading a team, or leading an organization driving an AI initiative, this book offers valuable perspectives on managing and thriving amidst AI-driven disruption.
More about the Author
Laura Madsen is a renowned global data strategist, advisor, keynote speaker, and author with over two decades of experience. She coaches data leaders across various industries, including healthcare, government, manufacturing, and technology, and has inspired many at conferences worldwide with her innovative approach to data management. As the co-founder of Moxy Analytics, a consulting firm in Minneapolis, Laura helps companies define and execute successful data strategies, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation. Her contributions have earned her a reputation as a thought leader and visionary in the field.
- Upcoming Keynote: “The AI and Data (Governance) Revolution”