Change Management mit Wirkung: Über Haltung, Verhalten und Kommunikation

Summary

This podcast delves into the complexities of change management within organizations, emphasizing the importance of not just introducing new systems but ensuring employee behavior and engagement are aligned for success. The discussion highlights common pitfalls, such as overlooking the behavioral aspects of change, and underscores the need for effective communication and leadership. Thomas Se from Rödl & Partner shares insights on navigating challenges in both the private and public sectors, stressing that a sustainable change management approach, though slower, leads to more successful and cost-effective outcomes.

Takeaways

• 😀 Change management is not about making things faster, but making them more sustainable in the long run.
• 😀 Many organizations face strong inertia, where employees resist change and want to continue doing things the old way.
• 😀 The core of change management involves not just training and communication but also focusing on employee behavior and their adaptation to change.
• 😀 Without a clear understanding of the purpose of change, employees' fears and concerns can prevent successful implementation.
• 😀 Effective change management involves integrating managers into the process and equipping them with the skills to lead through change.
• 😀 When change management is neglected, projects can face resistance, leading to delays, failures, or more cost-intensive cycles later on.
• 😀 Change management must be introduced early in the project to align with strategic goals, not just technical implementations like ERP systems.
• 😀 Large organizations, including public sectors, often face challenges of inertia, requiring a more cautious and inclusive approach to transformation.
• 😀 Successful change management requires constant communication and support throughout the project, not just at the start or end.
• 😀 Project teams must be given adequate tools and support to manage both their regular work and the added responsibilities of managing change.
• 😀 Projects should be evaluated with a tailored approach that considers the unique needs of the organization, rather than applying one-size-fits-all methodologies.

Q & A

What is the primary goal of a change management approach?

The primary goal of a change management approach is to make processes work more sustainably, even though it might not necessarily speed up the changes.

Why is the behavioral dimension crucial in change management?

The behavioral dimension is crucial because it addresses whether employees and managers successfully adapt to the change, which is key to the long-term success of projects like ERP system implementations.

How can poor change management lead to project failure?

If insufficient emphasis is placed on employee behavior, understanding the 'why' behind the change, and communicating effectively, large projects can fail, as employees may not be on board or may resist the change.

What is the common misunderstanding about the speed of change management?

Many assume that a change management approach will speed up the project, but in reality, it helps to make things work more sustainably in the long run, even if it may take more time initially.

Why is it important for management to clearly communicate the purpose of changes to employees?

Clear communication about the purpose of changes helps employees understand how the transformation will affect their work and the company, reducing resistance and fostering a smoother transition.

What role do managers play in the change management process?

Managers should be integrated into the change network, as they are key to driving change. They need to understand how to lead in times of change and address challenges that arise, as this is often overlooked in traditional management training.

What is the 'firefighter' role in change management, and when does it occur?

The 'firefighter' role happens when change management consultants are called in after a project is already struggling. They work to stabilize the situation, address issues, and guide the organization through the transformation.

How do high-performing employees often get affected by large change projects?

High-performing employees often face significant pressure as they are expected to carry out their usual tasks while also driving the change. This can lead to burnout, making it essential to offer support and help manage the workload.

Why is an integrative approach important in change management?

An integrative approach is important because it combines project management and change management to tailor the support based on each client's needs, ensuring that the organization moves forward holistically and sustainably.

How do forces of inertia in public administration impact change management?

Public administration often faces stronger inertia due to established ways of working. However, by addressing these forces early on with appropriate strategies, public administrations can still undergo successful transformations, particularly when there is pressure from citizens for digitalization.