Successfully Managing Change

As COVID19 lockdown eases and we enter a very different business landscape very many of us are faced with the task of managing change.

This can be very challenging but asking and answering some simple questions will enhance your probability of success.

1. Who should decide and initiate change?

Ensure it is only introduced by those with the appropriate authority and knowledge of the business.

2. What change is required and is it necessary?

Challenge the reasons for change and ensure they properly address the need.

3. What return is required from the change?

What will be the benefit achieved and will it provide a return on investment? Not so relevant if it is absolutely essential or driven by regulation.

4. What are the risks involved in the change?

What will be the impact and probability of things not going as expected – ensure a robust risk mitigation plan is in place.

5. Who will undertake the change? Do they have the required skills, knowledge and experience?

Will it be internal or external resource? Will training be required and has this been built into the plan?

6. How will progress be measured?

Create checkpoints to ensure it is on track – financially, timewise and resource allocation.

Regularly communicate progress against plan.

7. How will you celebrate successful completion?

Share the success recognising the benefit achieved!