Computational Leadership

Conclusion: Spider‐Man and Your Post‐Digital Future

I started this book with a story about impoverished leadership destroying my hometown. In closing, I'll share a more uplifting anecdote. On November 2, 1927, a man named Steve Ditko was born in my working‐class neighborhood in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. Upon graduating in 1945, Steve enlisted in the US Army, where he drew comics for an Army newspaper while stationed in Allied‐occupied Germany. Following his discharge, Steve moved to New York City and enrolled in art school to refine his craft. He worked intensively for two years sharpening his talents and eventually caught the attention of Stan Lee. The two developed a close working relationship and, in August 1962, something “amazing” happened: they co‐created Spider‐Man. I share this story because it always makes me think of the adage popularized by the Spider‐Man comics: “In this world, with great power there must also come—great responsibility!”

You, as CLS‐driven leaders, and the CLS‐driven leadership processes you create, must display this essential mix of digital strength and maturity. The risks are too great if you don't establish such a balance. For example, digital strength (having all the resources you need) paired with digital immaturity (not knowing what solutions are needed) runs the risk of implementing toxic data and tech. The resulting outcomes could include catastrophic breaches of privacy, crippling costs, and the reinforcement of biased and discriminatory ...