TRANSFORMATION IS A FOUR LETTER WORD...HARD pt8

Success Factor #7 - Change Management

This is the most under appreciated of the nine dangers. Transformational changes cause a great deal of stress for organizations and stakeholders and it takes a robust response to overcome. Failure due to this danger routinely makes the business news headlines for large and public companies, but happens to companies no matter the size.  

I worked with a company that routinely implements very large, complex capital asset projects. While implementing a back-office ERP, the company leveraged its existing project management experience and tools from their operations team. This knowledge, provided the project with the support, training, and tools needed for successful change management, greatly reducing the stress on the organization.

Recommendations:

1. Identify and assign the right people for both the project, and for backfilling operations, and give them proper guidance and support for their new roles.

2. To prepare for the “new normal,” rigorously identify and document:

• Changes to processes, procedures, systems, roles and functions.

• New skills and organizational structures needed.

• Develop and roll-out informational communications and training programs to all affected stakeholders.