Publications from ODSW Social Insights: Letters by DSW (Vol 2) | Page 172

Special Editions
We also hear a lot these days about social innovation and its place in
collective impact. What are some of the ideas that will enable us to build
our capacity and capability? And how do they link to our reference to “the
heart and mind (brains)”, and “passion and soul”?

Brains, soul, heart and courage
Brains: We should develop a deep knowledge in our area of work and stay
updated on the current research on what works and how the elements or
factors contribute or influence outcomes.
Soul: We should be clear about the values that we stand for. Good leaders
should lead with a compass and not by radar. While aware of the world
around them, good leaders are oriented to a true north that does not
waver. In contrast, a leader who makes decisions by radar will be constantly
changing in response to external stimuli.
Heart: We should be passionate about what we believe in and show
compassion. Passion and compassion will root our decisions in concern for
others. But passion and compassion are not sufficient. Good leaders will
want to ensure that they remain competent and continually refresh their
vision.
Courage: We should have good nerves to be bold and able to move toward
our vision even with incomplete information or risky odds after deep thinking
and analysis.
These are clearly valuable attributes in any leader.

Working with data and information
Most leaders will work with data and information. Data comes in the form of
raw observations and measurements or chunks of data.
Information is created by analysing relationships and connections between
the data. It is capable of answering the “Who/What/Where/How many/
When/Why is” type of questions. Quite often, when we talk about data driven
decision-making, it is information and not data that feeds i