Orde Wingate: A Military Innovator for the Digital Era

Orde Wingate was not a conventional leader. He was a disruptor. He was a lighting rod for action. His beliefs and opinions were divisive. And yet, we can learn lessons from those who had the courage to disregard conventions when they sense a strategic shift in the operating environment.

We are now well into the second decade of the “4th Industrial Revolution”. It began with the emergence of a trend towards automation, data exchange, and technological integration in the manufacturing sector. This new era of industrial production is characterized by the increased use of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things (IoT), and robotics, which are leading to significant changes in the way products are designed, manufactured, and delivered. Taken together this would have presented the sort of paradigm shift that Wingate would have understood intrinsically. What can today's leaders and managers learn from his experiences?

Orde Charles Wingate was a British Army officer who lived from 1903 to 1944 and is widely regarded as one of the foremost experts on guerrilla warfare of the 20th century. Despite his unorthodox tactics and controversial personality, Wingate's innovations in tactics and strategy have had a lasting impact on military thinking and practice. In WWII he established the Chindits - a force that operated at long range, and behind the lines, in the jungles of what was then Burma.

In this post, we will explore how Wingate's legacy can be applied to management in the digital era and why his leadership style is as relevant today as it was 80 years ago.

Emphasizing Innovation

Wingate was known for his unconventional thinking and willingness to try new tactics and strategies. In the digital era, managers can take inspiration from Wingate's approach by encouraging innovation and creativity within their teams and organizations. By fostering a culture of experimentation and risk-taking, managers can drive new ideas and approaches that can help their companies stay ahead of the curve.

Focusing on Agility

Wingate placed a great emphasis on strategic mobility and the ability to rapidly respond to changing conditions. In the fast-paced digital era, managers must also be agile and able to adapt quickly to changing circumstances and market trends. By staying flexible and open to new ideas, managers can respond to the rapidly evolving business landscape and maintain their competitive advantage.

Encouraging Integration

Wingate was known for integrating different arms into his forces and using them in a coordinated manner. In the digital era, managers can encourage the integration of different departments, teams, and technologies to achieve their goals. By breaking down silos and promoting cross-functional collaboration, managers can ensure that their organizations are operating at peak efficiency and effectively leveraging all available resources.

Prioritizing Communication

Wingate recognized the importance of psychological warfare and the role that communication plays in shaping perceptions and influencing outcomes. In the digital era, managers must also prioritize effective communication, both internally and externally, to build trust, maintain alignment, and drive success. By investing in robust communication channels and promoting transparency, managers can foster a positive, productive, and engaged workplace culture.

Leading by Example

Wingate was known for his personal leadership style and his ability to inspire and motivate his troops. In the digital era, managers must also lead by example and create a positive, inclusive culture that fosters collaboration, creativity, and innovation. By setting a strong tone and leading with integrity, managers can build trust, encourage engagement, and empower their teams to perform at their best.

Digital Chindit

In conclusion, Orde Wingate was a military innovator who remains relevant today for his unconventional approach to leadership and warfare. By emphasizing innovation, focusing on agility, encouraging integration, prioritizing communication, and leading by example, managers in the digital era can apply Wingate's legacy to drive success and create a modern, effective management style. By doing so, they can ensure that their organizations are well-equipped to tackle the challenges of the digital age and remain competitive in an ever-evolving business landscape. Perhaps we can all become "Digital Chindits"...