The first step in our journey is understanding the different factors affecting change efforts. While up to 60 different critical success factors have been identified in the literature, we’ll use this list as shorthand for potential factors to consider.
Using a change management framework can make sure that you consider all factors that can impact the success of your initiative. Review the resources below for an overview.
- Change Management Coach – Change Management Models
- Organizational Change: An Action-Oriented Toolkit Second Editions – Chapter 2: Change Frameworks for
Organizational Diagnosis - The Fast Track – Three Types of Change Management Models
What you will find in common with different frameworks is that some sort of analysis of the gap between where we are now, and where the project aims to take those involved is an essential step. Using Prosci’s ADKAR model can help us explain the importance of conducting an impact assessment. The ADKAR model is popular among practitioners conducting IT projects, but can be and should be tailored to the needs of your change initiative. Whatever framework you choose, remember to evaluate how it relates back to the goals of your change initiative.
The first step in the framework is Awareness. An impact assessment is an invaluable tool for understanding the scope of the change, and who is affected, in order to facilitate the first step in the model. This is because the assessment will document who is impacted, and how they are impacted. In order to successfully communicate the change, and create activities that drive awareness, a detailed understanding of what is changing for who is necessary. The impact assessment will also feed into other activities derived from each of the stages of the model. For example, effectively incorporating key stakeholders during the development of the initiative, process, or tool (Desire / Reinforcement), or ensuring that the training developed (Ability).