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Andy Callow Curated Article Index

Andy Callow

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This is a summary of all the non-weeknoting stuff I’ve written, consolidated in a single place. Every so often I’ll update this. Last updated: 26/01/2025

The How Not To Suck Series:

In 2021, on the back of reviewing some terrible applications, I decided to write my views on a good application form. This has expanded over time over the whole appointment and start process. These are the most popular things I’ve ever written!

Thoughts on Board-Level CIOs in the NHS

I’m convinced that having Board-Level representation of digital is essential for the future sustainability and success of the NHS. I wrote a lot about this in 2021.

First-Time Board-Level CDIO Programme

In 2022 I noted that newly-minted Chief Financial Officers get a structured programme to get them on-boarded at a national level. There was nothing for CIOs. With the help of some brilliant people, we set up this programme for newly-appointed Board-Level CDIOs/CIOs.

Reflections on Leaving/Starting Roles

Leaving or starting a new job role is a perfect opportunity for thinking about how to finish a job well and start a new one brilliantly.

Personal Productivity

Thinking about how you work is a key part to being productive. The Agile Manifesto Principles say “At regular intervals, the team reflects on how
to become more effective, then tunes and adjusts its behavior accordingly.”. These are my reflections on my personal effectivity.

Six Monthly Reflections:

I had the privilege of working with the super talented Matt Edgar whilst I worked at NHS Digital (2015–2019). One thing that impressed me was his dedication to regularly review and improve himself and his teams. In 2019, inspired by Matt, I started doing a 6- month reflective exercise.

User Manuals For Me

A User Manual for me is a “simple document which helps you communicate your working preferences, motivations and needs, so we can all work better together” [see Manual of Me]. This is one of the best things you can do when joining a new team. As time has gone on, I’ve been bolder in how I share this with new colleagues.

Reflecting on Reflecting

Weeknotes is the practice of publishing a blog, explaining what you’ve been up, generally on a weekly basis. They can come from individuals or groups [see Common Knowledge]. Weeknoting has become part of my regular habit.

Personal Goals:

I started plotting personal goals at the end of 2018 and do a quarterly review of progress.

Firebreaks

The idea of a Firebreak is that teams are given a few days away from business as usual to focus on some innovation or efficiency projects that interest them most. We did that on NHS.UK in 2016.

General Rants

Other Topics

Books

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Andy Callow
Andy Callow

Written by Andy Callow

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Husband. Dad to 3 smashing lads. Cub Leader. MAMIL. CDIO for Nottingham University Hospitals. Ex UHN and NHS Digital. Views own. Always learning.

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