What I’m Reading – Hilary Walton

Ōtautahi Christchurch-based Hilary Walton CMInstD is a self-proclaimed tech nerd, who by day is customer chief technology officer at Microsoft ANZ. The former psychologist has governance expertise in technology, AI, data protection, cyber security, risk management, HR and culture change, and is currently on the Audit and Risk Management Committee for Christchurch City Council. 

Her career has included security roles with MI5 and the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. A leader in her field, she spoke at the IoD’s 2024 Leadership Conference breakout session, ‘Privacy in the age of AI’. 

This week, she shares a ‘visionary’ book that will inspire leaders and governance professionals to think strategically about digital technology and transformation to remain at the forefront of innovation.

What is the name of the ‘governance/business’ book you are reading or can recommend? 

Chris Dixon’s Read Write Own: Building the Next Era of the Internet is a must-read about emerging technology and how blockchain tech can make the internet fairer for everyone.

Dixon breaks down the history of the web into three phases: the ‘read’ era (Web 1.0), which spread information; the ‘read-write’ era (Web 2.0), which let people create content but was taken over by big corporations; and now, the ‘read-write-own’ era (Web3), where blockchain lets users control their own data and creations.

This new era is seen as a return to the internet’s roots of openness and creativity. Dixon makes a clear distinction between the hype around cryptocurrencies and the real potential of blockchain technology, which he thinks can be used for everything from social media to AI and virtual worlds.

What makes this book interesting for business leaders and board professionals? 

It provides practical guidance on how to adapt and thrive in this new digital landscape. Dixon’s insights show how blockchain can shift control away from major corporations, such as Google and Facebook, giving power back to individuals, which could mean big changes in how businesses operate and interact with their customers.

How would you describe the style of writing?

His motivational style aims to empower business leaders and entrepreneurs with a roadmap to navigate and leverage the new digital landscape that blockchain technology promises to create.

Dixon writes with a clear and engaging style, making complex tech concepts easy to understand for a broad audience, combining deep industry knowledge with a visionary outlook, and presenting the internet’s history and future in an inspiring way using real-world examples. 

He also avoids jargon, ensuring the content is relatable and practical and he has featured as a guest on a number of podcasts, so you can listen to interviews where he brings the book to life.

What drew you to the book? 

Beyond the catchy title, Dixon’s call to action grabs attention. It drew me in with its timely focus on Web3 and blockchain technology. He pushes against the norm, encouraging us to be more than just passive users of the internet and networks. Instead, he urges everyone to take an active role in shaping the digital world.

Dixon also has a passion for ownership – whether it’s coding, creating content or building communities – which is a useful message and concept for businesses to consider as they shape their products and services into the future.

What resonated with you the most?

His vision for a decentralised internet, transitioning from a web dominated by a few major corporations to a Web3 model, where individuals have ownership and control over their data and digital creations. The idea strikes a chord with me, particularly being a leader in cyber security and privacy, as well as a content creator.

What is something you have taken away from the book that now follows you into your board roles?

I picked out three main messages that have shaped my governance perspective.

1. Embrace and leverage decentralisation: The book highlights the potential of blockchain to decentralise control and empower users. For board members, this means recognising the importance of decentralised technologies and considering how their organisations can leverage these innovations to enhance transparency, security and user empowerment. This understanding could lead to strategic decisions that align with the emerging trends in technology and digital ownership.

2. Focus on user ownership and engagement: There is an emphasis in the book on the shift towards a ‘read-write-own’ internet where users have greater control over their data and creations. Board members can take this insight to prioritise strategies that enhance user engagement and ownership. This might involve adopting platforms that allow for more user-generated content and ownership, thereby fostering a more loyal and invested user base. 

3. Prepare for the future of digital economies: Dixon discusses how blockchain and Web3 can revolutionise digital economies, creating new opportunities for businesses.

Boards should consider how their organisations can adapt to, and capitalise on, these changes. This could involve investing in blockchain technologies, exploring new business models that incorporate digital assets and NFTs, and staying informed about regulatory developments in this space.

How does reading feed into your continued governance practice/ learning?

Staying informed on emerging trends is key for me. This knowledge is essential for making informed strategic decisions and guiding the organisation through technological changes that impact business models and capabilities.

I read and also listen to a variety of materials from industry reports to books by thought leaders, podcasts, and also YouTube to broaden my understanding of different aspects of governance, finance, technology and regulatory environments.

I also run my own free tech-news text service Digital Culture Ideas and News Hub on a WhatsApp broadcast channel to ensure I stay in the know, and that others can too. 

Who should read this book and at what stage in their governance career?

Read Write Own is valuable for a wide range of readers involved in governance, technology and business leadership, no matter what stage of their governance career. 

Those just starting in governance or board roles can benefit from understanding the evolving landscape of digital technologies and how they impact governance. The book also provides foundational knowledge about blockchain and Web3, helping newcomers grasp the future of internet governance early in their careers.

There are plenty of practical insights and real-world examples that will help boards and governance professionals to deepen their understanding of emerging technologies. The book will also help to broaden thinking around incorporating new digital strategies into their organisations to stay competitive in a rapidly changing environment.

For seasoned professionals, the book offers a visionary outlook on how blockchain can transform digital ownership and governance. It’s particularly relevant for those in leadership roles who are responsible for steering their organisations through technological transitions. The strategic insights will help experienced leaders anticipate future challenges and opportunities, ensuring their organisations remain at the forefront of innovation.

When you’re not reading books on business or governance, what kind of books are you likely to pick up?

I love my non-fiction, I’m a bit of a tech and business nerd, what can I say? So, on my radar, I’m addicted to consuming the following:

• • The AI Daily Brief Podcast (formerly the AI Breakdown) – short daily videos that keep me up to speed on the most important news and technologies in the AI space
  • The GaryVee Audio Experience hosted by entrepreneur, CEO, investor, content creator, and public speaker Gary Vaynerchuk
  • McKinsey & Co are great with strategy insights.
  • For health and safety news and views, I wouldn’t follow anyone else but Matt Jones from Advanced Safety

What are some of the most pertinent governance issues that are top of mind for you, and why?

Those that are close to my heart. As an ex-chief information security officer, cyber security is first and foremost, but all risk fascinates me as an ex-risk professional.

Every business needs to be leaning into AI reinvention and keeping an eye on strategy around this. Working for Microsoft, I am in a key spot for this. As a former psychologist, I would also have to say that people and culture is ultimately the superpower of any business. 

What has been the most surprising thing you have discovered about yourself and others while being on a board?

One of the most important lessons I have learnt is the power you hold as a board member to shape the future. Being on a board isn’t just about holding a steady path but making the path.