1. What is an Information Technology Renaissance Man?
By Brian Flynn Information Technology Renaissance Man

2. What Is A Renaissance Man?
The terms Renaissance man and, less commonly, Homo Universalis (Latin for "universal man" or "man of the world") are related and used to describe a person who is well educated or who excels in a wide variety of subjects or fields.[3] The idea developed in Renaissance Italy… A gentleman or courtier of that era was expected to speak several languages, play a musical instrument, write poetry, and so on… REF :

3. The Rise of Specialization
Somewhere after the Renaissance, the world started valuing specialization as a means of operational efficiency.
The “jack of all trades” was dubbed the “master of none” and is sometimes considered inferior.
Specialist vs. generalist: did the Renaissance man die too soon? REF :

4. Division of Labor Is it a new idea? NO! Is it a bad idea? NO!
Many famous authors as far back as Plato have discussed division of labor. Most saw it’s value; some suggested it has a potential diminishing return.
The origin of the state lies in the natural inequality of humanity, which is embodied in the division of labor. -- Plato, “Republic”
The division of labor … leads to a 'mental mutilation' in workers; they become ignorant and insular as their working lives are confined to a single repetitive task. -- Adam Smith, “An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations”
It removes people from a sense of connectedness with society and with the world at large -- Thoreau, “Walden”
A widely-informed, holistic citizenry is vital for the spiritual and physical health of the country. -- Ralph Waldo Emerson, "The American Scholar“
Increasing the specialization may also lead to workers with poorer overall skills and a lack of enthusiasm for their work -- Marx
REF :

5. Silos & Layers

6. Specialization & Big Picture Perspective

7. Total Division of Labor Results In :
Responsibility gaps = vulnerability
Passing the buck
Thrown under the bus
Win as a team, fail as a team
Need for all roles… quarterbacks, coaches and all other players

8. The Risk of Overspecialization
Specialization is good, but is a specialist better than a jack of all trades or visa versa?
Health Care is realizing that they have a shortage of General Practitioners.
Who better to serve as a team’s glue than the Renaissance Man?

9. The “Glue Role” A Crucial Balancing Act
Overall Goal
Special Interest
Special Interest
Special Interest

10. Roles for a Renaissance Man
Chief Technology Officer
Executive level technologist.
Technical Manager/Director
Balances co-ordination of people & technology
Enterprise Architect
Focuses on technical co-ordination

11. Brian Flynn Information Technology Renaissance Man
Thank You!
Brian Flynn Information Technology Renaissance Man