ABOUT YOUR WORK (PAST, NOW)
What aspect of the workplace do you (currently) operate in?
Advisory and Implementation Management: Specializing in end-user clients, I oversee the design and delivery of scalable, business-relevant technology across diverse environments. I simplify complex client requirements into sustainable, long-term, operationally supportable technology solutions.
What are the challenges for you in delivering this service?
Technology Ecosystems are expanding in both size and influence across all work aspects. While the market offers numerous solutions promising immediate impact and returns, these are often reviewed and procured in isolation. My approach is strategic, considering the entire ecosystem to ensure long-term interoperability and supportability, thereby increasing the likelihood of a successful outcome.
What are the objectives or thinking that guide your actions?
Understanding the client’s end goal is crucial. This drives a strategic plan focusing on medium to long-term solutions rather than short-term fixes. The plan must be flexible enough to adapt as technology evolves, providing a framework to understand the direction and ensure sustainable progress.
How did you begin your career in the industry, and what were the key milestones?
I started “on the tools,” building theatres and event spaces in Scotland, that gave me a great grounding to creating experiential spaces. After six years in the British Army, I fell into project managing technology installations in the workspace.
Over the following years I have honed my skills between advisory and delivery of technology projects across the world.
How has the industry changed since you started, and do you have any thoughts about future industry changes?
The biggest change is moving to collaborative design. Fundamentally, projects have greater impact when designed by a cohesive client and design team. This was not always the case…
ABOUT LEARNING AND DEVELOPING
How do you stay current, learn, and develop your skill set?
Continuing professional development focus I learn something new from every client engagement. I often tell clients, “we are the sum of all our experiences,” which drives me to stay current with the latest thinking in both workspace and technology domains. These two areas are deeply interconnected, so understanding new technology alone isn’t enough; insights into workplace dynamics are equally crucial.
What is the most influential idea(s) in the workplace today?
“Data is the new oil!” I hear this frequently in project discussions and thought leadership, but I disagree.
We are generating vast amounts of data, yet many organisations struggle to utilise it effectively. When done well, data insights and analysis shape the Target Operating Models of progressive clients, delivering unprecedented returns on investment.
Who has given you help and mentorship in your career?
I have a group of peers—like-minded individuals who share ideas and thoughts and challenge each other’s thinking.
Collaboration is crucial, especially given the multifaceted nature of technology in the workplace. There isn’t a single source of guidance, particularly as technology evolves so quickly, making collaborative efforts even more valuable.
What is it that has kept you curious, busy, engaged?
The dynamic nature of technology and its integration with workplace dynamics drive me to seek new insights and solutions, ensuring I remain passionate about my work.
ADVICE, THOUGHTS, REFLECTIONS
How do you see the workplace industry evolving over the next 10 years?
Constant change, reduction of the working week to 4 days is a very real possibility.
What advice do you give to young people considering joining this profession?
Absolutely! Never stop learning. It’s important to absorb and understand not just your specific discipline, but also the factors that influence it. This holistic approach helps you stay ahead and adapt to changes effectively.
3 images – What are they, and why did you select them?
Image 1—Data Cable—The infrastructure is the lifeblood of any technology system. Despite advancements, we are still not in a fully wireless world, and the data cable remains the backbone of our ecosystems.
Image 2—Tank—”How do you design a tank?” How is this relevant to workspace design? I often ask clients this question. The typical answers include weight, range, size, armour, etc. However, few realise the key answer: “Start with the target and work backwards from there.” The target determines everything. This analogy tends to resonate well.
Image 3 – AIA Building, Hong Kong – my latest project. Working to deliver multiple workstreams in an owner-occupied space has been a rare privilege. It allowed us to create an exceptional experience for staff and visitors, as linking the ecosystem was less complex and costly than a typical tenant-landlord building.