1. Definition of Change Management
Managing Change or “Change Management” as it is more commonly known is a systematic approach to dealing with change, both from the perspective of an organization and at the individual level. Change management has at least three different aspects, including: adapting to change, controlling change, and effecting change. A proactive approach to dealing with change is at the core of all three aspects. (more discussion in our subscription site)
2. Behaviors of Accomplished Change Leaders
Applies new methods, approaches, alternatives, or solutions to processes that are proposed and directed by others.
Builds strong relationship with executives and line managers in order to challenge the status quo and champion new ideas/solutions to business issues.
Enables change by providing services that are fast, flexible, and pragmatic.
3. SHORT COURSE ON CHANGE MANAGEMENT
Managing Change is a challenging undertaking for any manager, requiring the mastery of many skills. This guide will highlight many of those skills and provide the learner with valuable knowledge and training in those skills.
Phases in Managing Change:
Simplifying the complex undertaking into smaller, more manageable parts will greatly reduce the risk of failure. Spend more time in the first two phases of the project so that you can be more successful in the all important third phase.
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A. Preparing for Change is the first phase in a change management plan and includes building a change management strategy (from the Greek word meaning “generalship”). In preparing for change, the change management team builds its strategy by assessing the characteristics and readiness of the organizations being impacted as well as the specific characteristics of the change at hand.
If you have little prior experience of managing change do the following:
- Get the “BIG” picture of change – the denial, resistance, and grudging acceptance phases that many users display to change. Know that this is natural. Learn to lead your organization through this difficult time as an inspired leader.
- Study how similar projects have been carried out in the past in your organization. Understand the strengths and weaknesses of those implementations and outcomes.
- Find a mentor or coach
- Set an example with a positive attitude. As you make promises about the project, be sure that you keep them.
Typical Change Management Profile Curve
Below we display the observed performance of most organizations undergoing change. While the sponsor of change expects performance to improve with the adoption of a new system or policy, frequently performance first declines before recovering towards the expected target of performance.
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Importance of Communications during change
a. You cannot over communicate during the change process. Have measurable goals so you can track and communicate your progress towards the goal.
b. Where possible be sure the communications convey the status accurately, describe the project plan milestones accomplished and those targeted to be completed in the near term , provide recognition of and encouragement. Remember criticize in private, laud in public.
c. Have meetings once a week including all members who will be impacted by the Change process
d. Don’t try to answer questions to which you don’t have the data (yet). Maintain your credibility
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