How can you best implement change management?
The first step to implementing change management is to understand fully how changes are currently managed, so you can keep what works well and make informed decisions on areas of priority. This is achieved by identifying a baseline and consulting with everyone involved in the lifecycle of managing changes. Once the baseline has been established, discuss the expected outcomes from implementing change management and reach an agreement with stakeholders of the business, IT, development. This will help senior management to maintain focus on why change management is being implemented within the organization. Once an agreement on outcomes has been reached, the activities to support the necessary changes in attitude, behavior and culture (ABC) should start and continue throughout and beyond the change-management implementation.
There are then two options to implement change management: a phased approach or “big bang.” The choice of option will depend on the baseline position for change management, the resources available for implementation, the rate of changes currently being managed and an organization’s appetite for risk.
Phased approach
In this approach to implement change management, a small start is made and lessons are learned, and then the scope is expanded. The initial scope of change management can be according to service, for example, introducing the new change-management approach for all changes to a service; by the type of change, such as major changes first; or by IT function, such as application changes. A phased approach for change management can require more time to complete, but if you start with a small scope, then you can test your change-management approach and adjust easier. According to other companies’ experiences, a phased approach is usually more successful.
Big bang
During a “big-bang” approach, change management is implemented to all services, types of change and service providers. This entails higher risk and can require considerable effort to make it work during the early days. It is also more difficult to adjust your change-management approach if you must make improvements. This approach is more often used in small organizations or where it is imperative to use it, for example, for regulatory compliance to a deadline when there isn’t enough time for a phased approach.
Good change management starts with the first step. Organizations are advised to make a start, however small. A good approach is to start a phased approach by selecting an area where change management can make a visible and positive difference. It is highly likely some mistakes will be made, which is normal when introducing a process or policy as complex and all-encompassing as change management. It is important to learn from your mistakes and be prepared to adjust your change-management process, policies, training and education.
Good change management starts with the first step. Organizations are advised to make a start, however small. A good approach is to start a phased approach by selecting an area where change management can make a visible and positive difference. It is highly likely some mistakes will be made, which is normal when introducing a process or policy as complex and all-encompassing as change management. It is important to learn from your mistakes and be prepared to adjust your change-management process, policies, training and education.