I want to build a highly automated, AI-powered operation, but half of my leadership team is completely non-technical and struggles with basic digital tools. How do we assess if their lack of technical literacy means they no longer GWC their seats for our future state?

Question

Tyler Smith · Accepted Answer

As you transition your operations toward AI-powered automation, the definition of capacity in several seats on your Accountability Chart will change. A leader who was highly capable in a manual environment may no longer have the capacity to run their seat if they cannot adopt modern tools.

To assess this objectively, you must update the roles for each seat on the Accountability Chart. If a major role now includes managing automated workflows or analyzing data generated by AI tools, list that explicitly.

Next, evaluate your leaders using the GWC™ framework. Specifically, look at the capacity component. Capacity is not just about time; it is also about mental capability and technical aptitude. If a leader cannot or will not learn to use the tools necessary to run their department, they do not GWC™ the seat.

Before making a change, offer training and support. Give them a clear timeframe to adapt. If they show a willingness to learn but struggle with execution, look at their Kolbe A™ Index results. A leader with high Follow Thru can learn to manage systems once they are built, but they might struggle to design them.

If a leader actively resists the transition or is unable to grasp the technology after training, you must make a hard decision. Keeping a non-technical leader in a seat that requires automated operations will stall your growth and prevent a clean exit. You must find a different seat that matches their skills or replace them.