Change Management

On this page I will present a short summary of different change management methods and techniques

Change is the only constant in life ~ Heraclitus

Despite this being said over 2500 years ago, people still exhibit reluctance to change and tend to favor maintaining the status quo. As a result, managing change becomes a formidable task. It is of utmost importance for project managers to be well-versed in change management methods and possess the essential skills to navigate and lead through change. I firmly believe that without a solid understanding of change management, effective project management is unattainable.

This is precisely why I am deeply passionate about change management frameworks and techniques. I have made them an integral part of my studies and personal development plan.

1. Deming Cycle (PDCA)

Framework originally developed by Williams Edwards Deming, also known as the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle. Possibly one of the most commonly used techniques to manage a change, but also as a problem solving tool consisting of four main stages:

Plan - the first stage when the process inefficiencies and needs for changes should be identified
Do - the implementation phase when changes are made. It's extremely important to effectively communicate with those affected by the change during this stage.
Check - stage when the actual output is compared to the intended outcome.
Act - based on the outcome of the previous stage cycle is either repeated until the desired outcome is achieved or new process/state is accepted.

This method is used to achieve a continues improvement .

2. Lewin’s Change Management Model

Developed by Kurt Lewin, 3-stage model of change is popular method due to simple 3 stage approach:

Unfreeze - analyze how improvements can be made and communicate the need for change.
Change - make changes and guide those who are affected throughout the transition.
Refreeze - once changes have been deployed and tweaked according to employee feedback, solidify the new status quo.

Usually Change stage last considerably longer than remaining two allowing enough time to overcome resistance and provide adequate training. This method can be successfully applied to an organisation or team wide changes, however, it's key to have a strong buying in from the senior management to foster the change process.

3. Nudge Theory

Nudge theory is based on a small suggestion that are backed up by evidence and positive reinforcements (small wins) so that the employees will be nudged in the desired direction. This is based on the theory that directing someone toward change is more effective than enforcing it. The following bullet points outline the basic principles of this approach:

Define changes
Consider the employee point of view
Provide evidence to show the best options
Present change as a choice
Listen to employee feedback
Limit options
Solidify change with short-term wins

4. The ADKAR Change Management Model

A non sequential model created by Jeffrey Hiatt focusing on the people behind the change process. This method promotes open conversations with the employess and use an employee input to improve the process. By building a good relationship with the stakeholders the risk of resistance to change is minimised. People are more aware about the change process, reasonings and impact of the change on their position. Having support form the employees increasesa success rate and help with sustaining the change.

Awarness of the need to change
Desire to particioate in and support the change
Knowledge of how to change
Ability to implement the change
Reinforcement to sustain the change

5. Kotter’s Theory

This method was developed by the John P. Kotter and it consits of 8 stages:

Create a sense of urgency
Build the change team
Form a strategic vision
Communicate the vision
Remove barriers to change
Focus on short-term wins
Maintain momentum
Institute change

This is a very powerful method in my opinion, but it lacks of the employee feedback and should be paired with other methods to fill this gap.

​On this page I will present a short summary of different change management methods and techniques