Thoughts from the Big Chair: A Leader’s Guide to Digital Transformation

by Russell Haworth

In recent years, millions of companies have undergone digital transformations, harnessing digital technologies like the cloud, SaaS, big data, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and the Internet of Things to overhaul their businesses and drive growth. But many key decision-makers, including senior leaders and board members, simply don’t understand these technologies, how they work, what they do, and the potential they bring. So, they fail to capitalize on them, putting their business at risk. This book solves this problem by describing these technologies in laypeople’s terms, breaking down the key concepts behind them, and spelling out their potential. But it goes further, offering useful information for anyone who seeks to launch a digital transformation initiative — information that author Russell Haworth has gathered and applied during his twenty-plus years as a tech leader. Anyone interested in spearheading their own digital transformation effort will benefit from reading this book.

Genres: Business, Nonfiction

222 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 4, 2023

Reviews

[Darya · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some useful digital transformation insights with a very good overview from executive perspective - this would be my view on the book. Being a C-level involves a lot and some important trends, tech developments and industry innovations can be out of scope. This book has it all on digital transformation and modern project management methodoligies, ideas on processes and technological changes that business may need to go through. Worth reading.

[Dr. Alan Albarran · Rating 4 out of 5]

I want to thank the author, Russell Haworth; publisher Forbes Books, and NetGalley for the opportunity to review an ARC of this book. what follows is my own original review.

This is a timely read with so much happening in the world of technology with artificial intelligence, machine learning, the Internet of things, etc. It is a business book with a clear premise--to help board leaders, CEOs and other officers up to speed on digital transformation, a process every company needs to address in a strategic manner. The book also has utility for anyone who wants to know more about these fundamental shifts happening now.

It is an easy book to read in a weekend or whenever you can devote a few minutes to the task. The book consists of 11 chapters spread across five sections: Evaluate, Migrate, Accelerate, Adapt, and Predict. Chapters are for the most part equivalent in size and contains adequate source/reference material. Each chapter concludes with a list of 5 questions about the topic as a way of summation.

Readers will have certain areas they may be more interested in than others; for me I was excited to learn more about artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and the challenges of cybersecurity. The material is just enough to help you understand the topics without getting bogged down and over your head. The chapters and subjects are a good starting point.

Some of the writing gets a bit technical, and there are some chapters where readers may want more (for me it was the chapter on digital leadership) but again, this is meant to be a primer to introduce and spur action. To that end the author does a good job.

If interested in this area definitely worth the 2-3 hours to read this handy compendium of information.

[Karyn H · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an Excellent Book for Business Owners that Wish to Harness the Digital World to Grow Their Business.

Author Russell Haworth is one fine author that deserves all the accolades for his many contributions today, to growing smart businesses by way of providing business advice to various tech boards. He also hosts a podcast where he provides essential information and advice to business owners, tech boards, and whoever cares to tune in. Thoughts From the Big Chair: A Leader’s Guide to Digital Transformation is another major milestone by the author in his race to ensure that the ordinary everyday businessman will have all the knowledge and the power to leverage modern technology and stir their business towards the light.
While the term Digital Transformation is very common among many firms today, not all of them understand the terminology not to talk about its application. Hence, this book is essential for business owners and executives who truly want to take full charge of running and ensuring the max performance of their businesses in this digital era.
Today, the world is changing very rapidly and only business owners with the full knowledge of the technicalities of digital technology can survive the turbulence. You need to read this book to be able to appreciate all its benefits.

[Haisam Syyed · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Thoughts from the Big Chair" is an essential guidebook for both business leaders and technology enthusiasts seeking to navigate the complex landscape of digital technologies. Russell Haworth adeptly addresses the knowledge gap that often hinders effective decision-making and growth in the face of rapid technological advancements. By demystifying the cloud, SaaS, big data, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and the Internet of Things, Haworth equips readers with a solid understanding of these concepts in accessible language.

This book goes beyond mere descriptions, offering practical insights and strategies to launch successful digital transformation initiatives. Drawing from his extensive experience as a tech leader, Haworth provides invaluable advice to help readers capitalize on the potential of these technologies and avoid common pitfalls. Whether you are a senior executive, board member, or an individual eager to spearhead a digital transformation effort, "Thoughts from the Big Chair" is a must-read resource that empowers you to harness the full potential of technology for organizational growth.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Many companies have undergone digital transformations like the cloud, artificial intelligence, machine learning, etc. to overhaul their businesses and drive growth. However there are still many key decision-makers, including senior leaders and board members, simply don’t understand these technologies, how they work and the possibilities from them. So they fail to capitalize on them, putting their business at risks. The book goes further, offering useful information for anyone who seeks to launch a digital transformation. This is information that the author has gathered and applied during his twenty-plus years as a tech leader. Anyone interested in spearheading their own digital transformation effort will benefit from reading this book. What I like this book for is the suggestion about having these people learn in lay terms to be better decision makers using technology.

Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I wasn’t obligated to write a review or any review at all. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.

[Maria Paula Castellanos Monroy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoughts from de big chair by Russel Haworth is the perfect guide for digital transformation.


Russel was the CEO of a technological company that was needing to implement a digital transformation in order to help the business run better increasing the annual earnings. During the COVID 19, he discovered that more than a necessity it was a priority; however, the board members having the fiduciary responsibility to create strategies of development were having difficulties to let the technology handle many processes inside the business. That’s why Russel wrote this book, to help the board members and leaders in companies to have informed discussions and take the right decisions related to technology.
If you are interested in knowing about Big data, artificial intelligence and the internet of things, this is a must read for you, because you will find not only theory but also examples, context, and questions that leaders should have in order to do the due diligence, optimize opportunities and minimize risks in the company that you run or you work for.

You will not regret purchasing this incredible book and guide; for me, it is a total 5/5.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

For upper management

The digital revolution has been in full swing in the past decade, and the business leader who doesn't understand how important digitalization is to the company will not be in charge for long. This book explains the digital revolution and transformation so that a leader in the upper management tier can understand and then utilize the digital skills other employees in order to keep pace with the industry-leading companies and all the changes that are being introduced. I found this to be a thoughtful and helpful introduction to digital transformations, and I feel like I have a better grasp on the topic than I did previously. The author did a great job of making this all easy to understand without seeming condescending. A great book for any leader willing to embrace change.

[Laura]

Useful information

Thoughts From the Big Chair -- written for managers, board members, CEOs, etc who make decisions that involve technology but aren't tech minded. This book is written for the non tech person, breaking down new concepts and terminology so that these leaders can make wise and informed decisions. This whole "digital transformation" that is happening now can be overwhelming for old school non tech people in leadership positions, so this book would be useful for someone in that position to educate themselves. Keeping the business updated with current technology (e.g. cloud computing, Anything as a Service, Internet of Things) is kind of a must in today's world and today's customers. This book is packed with useful information and I would recommend it for someone in the book's target audience.

[ZebraDebra · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Thoughts from the Big Chair” by successful businessman Russell Haworth is a profound guide and asset to becoming financially successful oneself. The author of this motivational book focuses specifically on staying up to date with technology and the internet and he stresses the necessity of using technology to improve your business and develop it to its fullest potential.

I found the fourth section of this book particularly interesting. It discusses “digital leadership” and how to spearhead digital transformation. Amongst other things, this section teaches one how digital transformation is not just about upgrading technology but relies very heavily on changing the leadership of the business’s people. There is a great deal that one can learn from this book. It definitely deserves five stars.

[Marina Lujan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoughts from the Big Chair is a must-read for senior leaders and executives who want to understand and take advantage of the opportunities presented by the digital age. This book, written by a renowned technology and business expert, provides clear and practical insight into how businesses can use digital technologies to drive growth and success.

The work focuses on digital transformations and how they have recently revolutionized the business world. It explores deeply into key technologies such as the cloud, software as a service (SaaS), big data, and artificial intelligence (AI), emphasizing their significance and potential for businesses.

It is an informative book that provides practical advice and tried-and-true strategies to help leaders make informed decisions and fully benefit from the opportunities presented by digital transformation.

[Píaras Cíonnaoíth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unlocking the power of digital transformation...

In "Thoughts from the Big Chair: A Leader's Guide to Digital Transformation," Russell Haworth delivers a valuable guide for senior leaders and board members who seek to understand and capitalize on digital technologies to grow their businesses. The book offers a strategic roadmap, leadership tips, and advice on culture, workflow, and security concerns, using language that is easy to comprehend. Haworth's extensive experience as a tech leader is evident throughout, and his passion for digital transformation is infectious. This is a must-read for anyone interested in leading a successful digital transformation initiative. Highly recommended.

[Mariela Semprini · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoughts from the Big Chair is a great guidebook written by Russel Haworth, and it's aimed to Senior Managers, CEOs and board members that are outdated of the new technological and digital advances. In the book the author mentions the current importance for any business, service or manufacturing managers to be aware and updated of the new technological tools. According to the author, which I agree, The Covid pandemic accelerated the introduction of this breakthrough in all businesses.
This guidebook is easy to read and it is divided in chapters that clearly explained how to use these innovative tools, which are the benefits of being updated in the digital field and the dangers a company may face. I would highly recommend this useful guidebook.

[Dani Savante · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoughts from the Big Chair is a must-read for business leaders, managers and company owners. In this excellent book, the author, Russell Haworth, shares his insights and experiences in updating a company to the digital world. The influence of internet, technology and digitization on business has been growing exponentially in the last years and especially after the Covid-19 pandemic. Nowadays, having a presence on the internet is a necessity for most business owners and companies. 
In this work, readers will find a very complete guide and sensible advice to make this shift. The writer explains different concepts related to this subject in a very clear and simple way. The combination of facts and personal experience is what makes this book interesting and compelling. I recommend it. 

[Conscientious · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoughts from the Big Chair by Russell Haworth is an accomplished digital transformation guide for businesses. The author is a tech leader and from his experience and expertise of 20 plus years, has complied this guide to make understand board members and senior leaders in laypeople's terms the various technicalities of the tech world. For them, failing to capitalize in digital transformation will hurt the business in the long run. A much-needed guide to transition smoothly into the tech world. After finishing this brilliant book, I have realized there's so much to explore and update to keep up with the current times. The author explains the newest technologies like the cloud, SaaS, big data, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and the Internet of Things. I highly recommend it.

[Margarita Garcia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Digital transformation is a reality and it has come to stay here forever and most managers in companies sometimes have problems understanding and incorporating technologies inside the process of the company. For that reason, the author, Russell Haworth, wrote ''Thoughts from the Big Chair: A Leader’s Guide to Digital Transformation''. This guide helps the owners or managers of a company to modernize their company with the best technology with the aim to improve the processes and make better decisions. The information that the author shares here is easy to comprehend and is useful for everyone who is interested in joining or updating in digital transformation. This book is a good investment

[Liz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Russell Haworth is the author of "Thoughts from the Big Chair: A Leader's Guide to Digital Transformation"; in this interesting and helpful book, the author takes a tour through technologies such as: the cloud, SaaS, big data, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and the Internet, which have entered the business world.
Many entrepreneurs, by not understanding these technologies, cannot get the most out of it and this often puts their companies at risk.
In my opinion, the author shows the reader, in a dynamic and easy-to-read way, how each of these applications works and the tricks they need to know to get the most out of it. I certainly recommend it!

[Susan B · Rating 5 out of 5]

Haworth tackles digital transformation: like the cloud, SaaS, big data, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and the Internet of Things in an unusual way since, here, he does not only educate us on what these technologies are and how they are used but, he also lets us explore them so that we can take profit from them. So, the writing style he uses is almost conversational and easy-going.
After reading this book, capitalizing on emerging technologies has never been simpler, thanks to the intelligible language used, the exampleS the author used from his very own experience and the steps he proposed. Thoughts from the Big Chair is, literally, a gem of a book.

[Almiria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Russell Haworth’s outstanding financial guidance in his book “Thoughts from the Big Chair”, is exceptionally useful in today’s times. He focuses on the importance of technology and digital transformation in creating and maintaining a successful business. There are a large number of terms referred to in this book and many of them are shortened to abbreviations. Fortunately, the author explains what they stand for or else I would not have understood them all.

Because we rely so heavily on the internet and technology for our business’s success these days, it is vital to remain on top of the latest developments and this book certainly helps one to do so. Highly recommended.

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is well-written and definitely full of difficult tech information put in easily understood terminology. However, that’s not what I liked most about it. It was readable. Interesting enough for the reading to flow rather than read in what I call that rather dry academia tone.

While it is focused on helping business managers keep up with and understand the digital age, I really think this is a good practical business book for anyone who owns or manages a business. There are just some good concrete pieces here for everyone.

[Crystal · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very technical

This is a good place to start learning about digital transformations. This is full of technical terms and definitions, as well as guidance for which direction one should go. However, this was very technical with limited explanations and examples to clarify between similar terms. This should be read chapter by chapter, with breaks in between to further research the topics.

#GoodreadsGiveaway

[Vanessa Vicente · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is more relevant than ever on exploring how to level up on digital platforms for a high level perspective. The ever changing landscape of the digital world can be complex but I enjoyed how this book navigated and explained the insights in a digestible manner. It's valuable to hear from a C-suite leader and felt the wording was leaning towards mentorship and relatable. A great starter book if you are interested into stepping up and expanding your knowledge. I recommend this read!

[Tanya Dreke · Rating 4 out of 5]

informative book

This book is timely given most things are digital or moving in that direction. It is technical so you to look things up. If you are interested in the digital transformation topic, I would recommend reading. Thank you for the complimentary digital copy from Goodreads giveaways.

[Brianna Schultz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very informative with lots of definitions. Really walks you through what you need to know to move a business into a digital model.

[David · Rating 3 out of 5]

As a digital marketer, it started off interesting. Covered lots of IT and other topics at a high level that made me question if I was the right audience.

[Lorraine · Rating 2 out of 5]

Goodreads giveaway
Skipped through, more about his own journey than a guide for other people!