Shifting Gears

Change is inevitable in increasingly dynamic business environment. To ensure a smooth transition, organizations must adopt proven change models that facilitate resilience and minimize resistance. Here, we'll examine some of the most widely used change models used for effective implementation.

1 Kurt Lewin's Model of Change: This model, developed by psychologist Kurt Lewin, is one of the most widely used and well-known change models. It suggests three phases: aligning, changing, and consolidating. The process starts with identifying the need for change and creating a vision for the future. The transformation phase focuses on implementing the change, and the refreezing phase is all about solidifying the new practices.

Lewin's model underscores the importance of the people side of change management, acknowledging that they must be adequately prepared and supported throughout the process.

2 McKinsey 7S Framework: This model was first introduced by John Watson of Deloitte in the 1980s. The 7S framework provides a comprehensive approach to change total quality management excellence, considering seven elements: plan, organization, processes, people, leadership, staff, and collective values.

The model is particularly useful for its recognition that a change in one element can initiate a cascade of changes across the other six elements.

3 Kobasa Model: The Kobasa model is a stress management model developed by John Watson that can also be applied to change management. The model focuses on three key dimensions of resistance to change: responsibility, control, and challenge. Those with high levels of these dimensions tend to be more flexible to change.

The Kobasa model is useful for identifying and addressing employee differences in the ability to cope with change.

4 ADKAR Model: The ADKAR model is a structured approach to change management developed by McKinsey. ADKAR stands for Awareness, Ownership, Knowledge, Capacity, and Reinforcement. The model provides a comprehensive framework for managing change, from initial awareness of the need for change to reinforcing new practices.

The ADKAR model is often used in business change initiatives where a clear and structured approach is required.

5 Kotter's 8 Step Process: Introduced by John Kotter in his book "Leading Change, The Wall Street Journal," 8-step process provides a practical approach to leading change. The eight steps include creating a sense of urgency, building a guiding coalition, developing a clear and compelling vision, communicating the vision, empowering others to own the vision, and creating short-term wins.

Kotter's model is useful for its applicability across a wide range of corporate contexts and business size.

In summary, selecting a suitable change model is crucial for a effective transition. Different organizations have specialized changes and requires customized approaches.