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In this Pearl, John Stringer shares his experience of developing an artificial intelligence (AI) policy at his school with a focus on embracing simplicity and clear communication. He highlights how the initial policy draft became too complicated, filled with jargon and technical language, which disengaged students and staff. After revisiting the school's core values and simplifying the message, they created a concise one-page framework. Stringer emphasizes the importance of clarity in communication, quoting Leonardo da Vinci, "Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication." This experience reinforced the idea that clear and simple communication is often the most effective approach in leadership.
Professional positions cited were the ones held at the time of recording. The positions and schools of those quoted may have since changed.
John Stringer is the Deputy Head of the Canadian International School of Hong Kong.
