“A Field CTO can help people become aware that the silos of yesterday are not going to build the systems you want today or tomorrow.” – Paul Davis
Redefining Failure
Technology strategy can’t stay on a whiteboard—it has to be translated into daily execution that scales with the business. Paul Davis, Field CTO at NetApp, explains why redefining failure is essential for building teams that adapt quickly, innovate effectively, and stay aligned with long-term goals.
Strategy Meets Execution
Paul describes the CTO’s role as the bridge between technical execution and business strategy. Unlike CIOs, who focus on daily operations, CTOs must anticipate what’s next and design systems that can deliver both immediate value and future readiness. This requires constant questioning of assumptions, architecture, and delivery plans—often before others see the gaps.
Key takeaways:
- CTOs translate business goals into actionable technical roadmaps.
- Failing forward fosters speed, adaptability, and psychological safety.
- AI works best when guided by skilled, continuously trained teams.
- Breaking down infrastructure-application silos drives performance and innovation.
- Resilient cultures view mistakes as learning tools, not setbacks.
The Case for Failing Forward
For Paul, failure isn’t an obstacle—it’s a growth engine. Teams that can test, fail, and iterate without fear learn faster and produce stronger solutions. This mindset is especially important in hybrid environments, where speed and resilience often determine success.
AI as a Force Multiplier
AI can give teams “digital superpowers,” but only if they have the expertise to guide it. Without ongoing training, AI adoption can stall or create new risks. Paul emphasizes the need for leaders to pair AI tools with skill development, safeguard intellectual property, and ensure adoption is intentional.
Breaking Silos for Better Outcomes
Legacy boundaries between infrastructure and application teams slow innovation. By fostering cross-functional collaboration, CTOs can improve uptime, reduce risk, and accelerate product delivery.
Organizations that learn faster than their competitors win. Paul’s advice for leaders: be engaged, challenge assumptions, and create an environment where failure moves you forward.