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In the business world, change is inevitable. Technology, budgets, leadership, and business strategies all experience change. The issue is change can lead to undesired results. According to McKinsey & Company, 70% of transformations launched by companies fail. Seventy percent. A major reason for this shockingly high rate of failure is a lack of preparation leading up to organizational change.
This is where Change Management comes into play.
What is Change Management?
Change Management is the roadmap for how your organization implements change – it’s a process outline that includes preparation, execution, and review to improve project outcomes. Not only does Change Management provide a framework for managers to utilize during organizational transformations, but it also aids employees in adapting to changes.
There are several Change Management models an organization can use, and a few examples include:
- The ACMP Standard for Change Management
- The McKinsey 7-S Model
- Kotter’s Change Management Theory
- ADKAR Change Management Model
- Bridges Transition Model
- Lewin’s Change Management Model
There are benefits to each model, and company decision-makers should choose a model based on their organization’s respective preferences. Blackink IT utilizes the Associations of Change Management Professionals (ACMP) Standard for Change Management, which is one of the most comprehensive and popular frameworks available. The ACMP’s process is broken down into five steps:
- Evaluate Change Impact and Organizational Readiness
- Formulate Change Management Strategy
- Develop Change Management Plans
- Execute Change Management Plans
- Close the Change Management Effort
Why is Having a Change Management Process Important?
Now more than ever before, organizations are experiencing an increasing number of complex changes. Turnover rates increasing due to the Great Resignation, technology advancing at exponential rates, and work from home are just a few examples of the current challenges forcing companies to rethink the norm.
With these challenges, it’s important that companies adequately prepare for smooth transitions. Change is rarely easy, for decision-makers and employees alike. Frustration, confusion, and uncertainty are all a normal part of change, and employers are justified in searching for ways to ease transitions and increase employee buy-in. Selecting a Change Management Process for your company, and then utilizing that process for both big and small change, is a proven way to increase the probability that new decisions “stick.” These frameworks serve as important guides to companies of all sizes and industries, and your company is no exception.
Choosing a Change Management system, sticking to that process, and carefully planning your company’s changes are essential steps to take to prepare your organization for the modern world.
Looking to Learn More About Change Management?
At Blackink IT, we find the ACMP Standard for Change Management to be an invaluable tool. That’s why on June 22 from 8:30-10:00 AM at Tinker House Events, we’ll be hosting our “Leading in Chaos” event alongside our partners at Milestone. This event will provide attendees with the opportunity to utilize the ACMP’s Change Management Framework while learning from a panel of experts.
Missed the event but still interested? Watch our event recap here!
