Implementing change in an organisation involves making alterations to the processes, systems, structures and resources that the organisation typically relies on to conduct its activities. Change is daunting and difficult for most, and in the context of business, this is exceedingly true.
However, when things are not going well, it is critical for management to implement change.
To do this successfully, business leaders must employ effective strategies and techniques. We’ve identified four steps that can help you execute effective change in your company.
Identify
To start with, decision-makers need to have a case for change. Meaningless change is never recommended, so the first step is always to determine if change is actually the right move for your company at any given time. Analysing your business processes to identify pain points and areas of improvement is the best way to go about this. Data analysis and process audits can help you identify any potential issues and risks that need to be addressed. If multiple issues have been determined from this, then change initiatives are required.
Communicate
Communication plays an important role in guaranteeing the effectiveness of the required change. After identifying the need for change, it is important that everyone in the business understands the purpose and benefits this change can bring to the organisation. So, management must provide enough information about the change plan to all involved.
When all staff understand the reasons for and urgency of the change, and are made to feel part of the process, they’ll become motivated, and they will invest their time, effort and ideas to make the change successful.
Implement
When implementing the change plan, business leaders should ensure that the whole team is consistently doing their part. Without consistency, the roadmap to change will stall and frustrate organisational efforts.
Hence, decision-makers must:
- consider obstacles and possible employee resistance;
- design a timeline for updates; and
- monitor the team’s efforts in implementing the new processes.
Measure
Measuring the effectiveness of the introduced change is a crucial step in the overall change process. It helps assure decision-makers that they’re on the right path.
To measure the effectiveness of the new processes, business leaders should do the following:
- meet regularly and gather feedback;
- observe and assess employee performance;
- use employee engagement surveys to measure staff satisfaction; and
- conduct a periodic evaluation of the new process.
Applying these methods will make it easier for management to determine poor or favourable business outputs.
Implementing change in an organisation is not quick and easy. It involves much preparation, patience, dedication and camaraderie at all levels to make sure that the intended change meets organisational goals and values.
If you need help managing change in your organisation, get in touch with our team today.
