After 60+ years’ experience of the application of information technology in a wide variety of industries, Charles Symons is now concerned about the ‘Left-Behinds’ – those who cannot use modern IT for whatever reasons. How can technology be improved to help rather than actually hinder use by these people?
Charles graduated in physics, first researching in nuclear power, then joining CERN in Switzerland where he managed the main computer centre. With Philips Electronics he was responsible for Information Systems standards and data administration at its Dutch HQ, then took on a similar role for Xerox in London.
He entered management consultancy with Nolan Norton & Co in London, later becoming a partner with KMPG, where he helped organizations in many parts of the world to develop business-led IS strategies, and to measure and improve the performance of the IS function.