The Change Management Process

The business world is constantly evolving.  To meet these demands adaptation needs to occur which sometimes poses a challenge. These challenges arise from changes in technology, economic trends, laws and regulations, competition and so forth. Organisational change is defined as the actions a business takes to significantly change one or more components. Change management is a process of overseeing and facilitating change at any level of the organisation. It is the responsibility of management to decide exactly how to address this change, develop the process and how to best execute it.

Change management assesses the situation at hand and examines why change is required. It further aligns efforts and resources to manage this process effectively. Change management should lead employees, teams, departments and the organisation towards success.  

The Change Management process includes:
1. Preparation
The preparation phase includes creating awareness of the importance of the change. The challenges faced by the organisation are discussed. Employees are informed during the initial stages before change can take place. 

2. Vision and plan
A Vision and thorough plan must be developed. This plan must include strategic goals, the team designated to accomplish these goals and key performance indicators.

3. Implementation
The implementation phase involves actioning the plan and strategy. This will include changes to the company’s structure, strategy, process, systems, goals etc. During this phase, managers guide employees in taking the necessary steps to achieve their goals. Constant communication of the organisation’s vision is important.

4. Integrate into company culture and practices
Once the implementation stage is finalised, the integration phase occurs. During this phase, the change process is integrated into company culture and practices. 

5. Review progress and analyse results
This phase includes reviewing the progress and analysing the results. After completing a transition period, it is important to review the aspects of progress, assess their effectiveness and learn from the results for future improvements. 

Dr Prishana Datadin
Human Resource Manager 

Source: 

Harvard Business School 
https://online.hbs.edu/

Michigan State University
https://www.michiganstateuniversityonline.com/resources/leadership/what-is-change-management/