Category Archives: Leadership

What is the best way to create successful change? – EPISODE FOUR – Ask the Consultant

Live from the Innovation Studio comes EPISODE FOUR of a new ‘Ask the Consultant’ series of short form videos. EPISODE FOUR tackles a question I’m asked so frequently that I wrote a book to answer it:

“What is the best way to create successful change?”

Hint: It starts with getting a copy of Charting Change because I introduce in the book several key frameworks that lay the groundwork for successful change that are built upon in the Change Planning Toolkit™.

The pace of change is accelerating and organizations need to become more agile and more capable of continuous change. This presents a huge challenge for most organizations.

Together in this episode we’ll explore some of the core building blocks to creating successful change in your organization, and a discuss what else is in Charting Change and the Change Planning Toolkit™, and how this particular book can make a great course book for change management courses at universities, executive education, and corporate training programs.

Many of the tools in the optional Change Planning Toolkit™ will look familiar to change management professionals because they have been informed by the ACMP’s Standard for Change Management and the PMI’s PMBOK.

Five Keys to Successful Change 550

“Does the change you’re proposing inspire fear or curiosity? Fear steals energy from change; curiosity fuels it.”— Braden Kelley

Grab your copy of Charting Change on Amazon while they last!

What question should I tackle in the next video episode of “Ask the Consultant” live from my innovation studio?

Contact me with your question

}} Click here to watch the video {{

Below are the previous episodes of ‘Ask the Consultant’:

  1. EPISODE ONE – What is innovation?
  2. EPISODE TWO – How do I create continuous innovation in my organization?
  3. EPISODE THREE – What is digital transformation?
  4. All other episodes of Ask the Consultant


Accelerate your change and transformation success

Subscribe to Human-Centered Change & Innovation WeeklySign up here to get Human-Centered Change & Innovation Weekly delivered to your inbox every week.

The Future of Office Spaces

Adapting to Hybrid Work Models

The Future of Office Spaces: Adapting to Hybrid Work Models

GUEST POST from Art Inteligencia

The traditional office space as we know it is undergoing a seismic shift. The rise of remote work during the global pandemic has forced companies to re-imagine the way their employees work and how their physical office spaces are utilized. As we look towards the future, it’s clear that businesses will need to adapt to hybrid work models that combine the best aspects of in-person collaboration with the flexibility of remote work.

One key aspect of this shift is the redesign of office spaces to accommodate hybrid work models. Companies are realizing that employees no longer need a dedicated desk or cubicle to be productive. Instead, many are opting for open, flexible layouts that allow for easy collaboration and communication, while also providing private areas for focused work.

Case Study 1: Google

Take Google, for example. The tech giant has long been a pioneer in office design, with its campus-like headquarters in Silicon Valley setting the standard for innovative work environments. In response to the rise of remote work, Google has announced plans to revamp its office spaces to better support hybrid work models. This includes creating more flexible work areas, increasing the number of meeting rooms equipped with video conferencing technology, and implementing a hot-desking system that allows employees to choose where they work each day.

By adapting its office spaces to accommodate hybrid work models, Google is able to provide its employees with the flexibility and resources they need to be productive, whether they’re working from home or in the office.

Case Study 2: Microsoft

Microsoft is another company leading the way in adapting office spaces to support hybrid work models. The tech giant has announced plans to redesign its headquarters in Redmond, Washington, to create a more flexible and collaborative work environment. This includes adding more outdoor workspaces, implementing a reservation system for meeting rooms, and creating designated quiet areas for focused work.

By redesigning its office spaces to better support hybrid work models, Microsoft is able to provide its employees with a work environment that fosters collaboration, creativity, and productivity, whether they’re working remotely or in the office.

Conclusion

The future of office spaces is all about adapting to hybrid work models. Companies that embrace this shift and redesign their office spaces accordingly will be better positioned to attract and retain top talent, foster innovation, and drive business success in the years to come. By learning from innovative companies like Google and Microsoft, businesses can create work environments that support the evolving needs of their employees and enable them to thrive in a post-pandemic world.

Bottom line: Futurology is not fortune telling. Futurists use a scientific approach to create their deliverables, but a methodology and tools like those in FutureHacking™ can empower anyone to engage in futurology themselves.

Image credit: Pixabay

Subscribe to Human-Centered Change & Innovation WeeklySign up here to get Human-Centered Change & Innovation Weekly delivered to your inbox every week.

Building an Effective Innovation Team

Key Roles and Responsibilities

Building an Effective Innovation Team

GUEST POST from Art Inteligencia

Innovation is the lifeblood of any organization striving to stay ahead in today’s dynamic and competitive business landscape. To foster a culture of creativity and cultivate groundbreaking ideas, building an effective innovation team is paramount. This article explores key roles and responsibilities within such teams and delves into two compelling case studies that exemplify the power of a well-structured innovation team.

Key Roles within an Innovation Team:

1. Innovation Leader:

The innovation leader acts as the driving force and visionary within the team. This role encompasses setting the team’s mission, goals, and strategies, while continuously inspiring and motivating members towards innovative thinking. Additionally, the innovation leader ensures alignment between the innovation team’s objectives and organizational goals.

2. Ideation Specialists:

Ideation specialists concentrate on generating and refining ideas. They possess a unique ability to break the shackles of conventional thinking and nurture a culture of ideation within the team. By encouraging brainstorming sessions and implementing various ideation frameworks, such as Design Thinking or Six Thinking Hats, they facilitate the generation of diverse and creative ideas.

3. Market Research Analysts:

Market research analysts play a pivotal role in ensuring that ideas generated by the team have a strong foundation in market insights and customer needs. By conducting comprehensive market research, analyzing trends, and identifying potential opportunities and risks, they empower the team to make data-driven decisions and prioritize projects with the highest market potential.

4. Technical Experts:

Technical experts bring specialized knowledge and skills to the innovation team. They provide essential technical expertise to assess feasibility, prototype ideas, and overcome technological obstacles. Their contributions enable the team to transform concepts into tangible innovative solutions.

Case Study 1: Pixar Animation Studios:

Pixar Animation Studios, renowned for its groundbreaking animation technology and storytelling, exemplifies the power of an effective innovation team. Their team structure ensures cross-functional collaboration and diversity of perspectives. While the innovation leader sets a clear vision and encourages creativity, ideation specialists foster an environment of open communication and brainstorming sessions. Technical experts work closely with creative teams, developing cutting-edge animation technology. The result is a history of powerful animated films that have revolutionized the industry.

Case Study 2: Amazon:

Amazon, a global leader in e-commerce and disruptive technology, demonstrates the significance of market research analysts within an innovation team. By creating dedicated teams focused on researching market trends, consumer preferences, evolving technologies, and potential risks, Amazon keeps a pulse on market dynamics. These market research analysts enable Amazon’s innovation teams to make informed decisions, identify emerging business opportunities, and create products and services that anticipate customer demands.

Conclusion

Building an effective innovation team necessitates carefully defining key roles and responsibilities. Braden Kelley’s Nine Innovation Roles is a great tool for looking at this particular subject matter, and he makes several resources available for free on this site. By having an innovation leader who inspires, ideation specialists who foster an environment of creativity, market research analysts who provide insights, and technical experts who bring ideas to life, organizations can achieve breakthrough innovation. Case studies such as Pixar Animation Studios and Amazon exemplify the immense value of a well-structured innovation team. Through the implementation of these key roles and responsibilities, enterprises can foster a culture of innovation, leading to sustained growth and success in today’s ever-evolving business landscape.

Bottom line: Futurology is not fortune telling. Futurists use a scientific approach to create their deliverables, but a methodology and tools like those in FutureHacking™ can empower anyone to engage in futurology themselves.

Image credit: Pexels

Subscribe to Human-Centered Change & Innovation WeeklySign up here to get Human-Centered Change & Innovation Weekly delivered to your inbox every week.

Inspiring Innovation through Narrative

The Art of Storytelling

Inspiring Innovation through Narrative: The Art of Storytelling

GUEST POST from Art Inteligencia

In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, businesses are constantly striving to stay ahead of the curve and foster innovation. While countless tools and strategies exist to inspire creativity, one often overlooked yet immensely powerful approach lies in the art of storytelling. Harnessing the strength of narratives, companies can inspire their teams, explore new perspectives, and drive innovation. This article explores how storytelling can flourish as a catalyst for innovation, supported by two compelling case studies that highlight its effectiveness.

Case Study 1: Pixar Animation Studios

Pixar Animation Studios, renowned for its groundbreaking computer-animated films, has become a household name for captivating storytelling. Pixar understands that innovation often thrives when traditional boundaries are challenged, and they have used storytelling as a means to consistently inspire creativity.

In the case of Pixar’s film “Toy Story,” the initial concept faced significant skepticism. The concept of toys coming to life seemed unusual, but the storytelling approach taken by Pixar captured the hearts and imaginations of both adults and children. By creating relatable characters, building emotional connections, and weaving an engaging narrative, Pixar transformed a seemingly bizarre concept into a groundbreaking and hugely successful film.

This case study emphasizes that storytelling can help organizations push the boundaries of imagination, enabling them to overcome initial reservations. By creating a compelling and relatable narrative, companies can promote a culture that encourages their teams to challenge conventional thinking and embrace innovation.

Case Study 2: Nike

Nike, one of the world’s leading athletic brands, has long recognized the power of storytelling in fostering innovation. Their “Just Do It” campaign, introduced in 1988, revolutionized sports advertising and inspired countless individuals to push their limits. The unifying message of perseverance and determination resonated with people from all walks of life, propelling Nike to the forefront of athletic apparel.

A notable example of Nike’s use of storytelling comes from their collaboration with Colin Kaepernick, the former NFL player known for his peaceful protests against racial injustice. In 2018, Nike launched a controversial campaign featuring Kaepernick, titled “Believe in something. Even if it means sacrificing everything.” This narrative-driven advertisement sparked conversation and stirred emotions worldwide. By effectively utilizing storytelling, Nike took a bold stance and inspired innovation by championing social values and sparking important conversations.

This case study demonstrates the power of storytelling to prompt innovation not only within a company but also on a societal level. By weaving narratives that highlight important issues, companies can drive conversations, challenge norms, and inspire change.

Key Takeaways:
1. Stories have the power to transform unconventional ideas into innovative breakthroughs. By crafting engaging narratives, organizations can overcome initial skepticism and foster a culture that embraces creative thinking.

2. Well-crafted stories can act as a catalyst for change and inspire innovation on both individual and societal levels. Companies that use storytelling to embrace and promote important values can challenge the status quo and shape the future.

Conclusion

The art of storytelling is a potent tool that can inspire innovation within organizations. By crafting narratives that captivate, brands can create a culture that encourages their teams to think differently, challenge existing norms, and push the boundaries of creativity. Pixar Animation Studios and Nike demonstrate how storytelling can transform bold ideas into groundbreaking achievements and highlight important social issues. Embracing the power of storytelling has the potential to unlock innovative thinking and drive meaningful change in the corporate landscape.

Bottom line: Futurology is not fortune telling. Futurists use a scientific approach to create their deliverables, but a methodology and tools like those in FutureHacking™ can empower anyone to engage in futurology themselves.

Image credit: misterinnovation.com

Subscribe to Human-Centered Change & Innovation WeeklySign up here to get Human-Centered Change & Innovation Weekly delivered to your inbox every week.

How can I create continuous innovation in my organization? – EPISODE TWO – Ask the Consultant

Live from the Innovation Studio comes EPISODE TWO of a new ‘Ask the Consultant’ series of short form videos. EPISODE TWO tackles the second most commonly asked question of me:

“How can I create continuous innovation in my organization?”

Hint: It starts with getting a copy of Stoking Your Innovation Bonfire because I detail in the book how to overcome the key barriers to innovation.

Together in this episode we’ll explore how to create continuous innovation in your organization, why I wrote Stoking Your Innovation Bonfire, and how it can make a great course book for innovation courses at universities, executive education, and corporate training programs.

“Innovation is never easy — and not always welcome. This book is dedicated to the men and women who dedicate their lives to pushing our organizations to make more efficient use of our human capital and natural resources and to make the world a better place.”

Grab a great deal on Stoking Your Innovation Bonfire on Amazon while they last!

What question should I tackle in the next video episode of “Ask the Consultant” live from my innovation studio?

Contact me with your question

}} Click here to watch the video {{

Below are the previous episodes of ‘Ask the Consultant’:

  1. EPISODE ONE – What is innovation?
  2. All other episodes of Ask the Consultant


Accelerate your change and transformation success

Subscribe to Human-Centered Change & Innovation WeeklySign up here to get Human-Centered Change & Innovation Weekly delivered to your inbox every week.

Building a Sustainable Corporate Culture

Strategies for Employee Engagement and Raising Awareness

Building a Sustainable Corporate Culture

GUEST POST from Chateau G Pato

In today’s fast-paced business world, companies are increasingly recognizing the importance of building a sustainable corporate culture. A strong and positive corporate culture can lead to increased employee engagement, improved morale, and ultimately, higher productivity. In this article, we will explore strategies for creating a sustainable corporate culture that fosters employee engagement and raises awareness.

Employee Engagement

One of the key elements of a sustainable corporate culture is employee engagement. Engaged employees are more motivated, productive, and committed to their work. There are several strategies that companies can use to foster employee engagement:

1. Encourage open communication: Create a culture where employees feel comfortable sharing their ideas, concerns, and feedback. This can be done through regular team meetings, anonymous suggestion boxes, and open-door policies with managers.

2. Provide opportunities for growth and development: Offer professional development opportunities such as training programs, workshops, and mentorship programs. Investing in employee growth not only benefits the individual but also the company as a whole.

3. Recognize and reward employees: Acknowledge employees’ hard work and achievements through recognition programs, employee of the month awards, or bonuses. Feeling appreciated and valued can boost employee morale and engagement.

Case Study 1: Google

Google is known for its strong corporate culture that emphasizes employee engagement and well-being. The company offers perks such as free gourmet meals, on-site fitness centers, and nap pods to promote work-life balance. Google also encourages open communication through weekly all-hands meetings and employee feedback channels. These initiatives have helped Google maintain high employee satisfaction and retention rates.

Raising Awareness

Another important aspect of building a sustainable corporate culture is raising awareness about social and environmental issues. Companies that prioritize social responsibility and sustainability are more likely to attract and retain top talent, as employees increasingly value working for organizations that align with their values. Here are some strategies for raising awareness within your organization:

1. Implement sustainability initiatives: Start by reducing your company’s carbon footprint, promoting recycling programs, and using eco-friendly products. These initiatives not only benefit the environment but also demonstrate your commitment to social responsibility.

2. Support community engagement: Encourage employees to volunteer for local charities, participate in community clean-up events, or donate to causes they care about. Giving back to the community can boost employee morale and foster a sense of purpose.

3. Communicate transparently: Keep employees informed about your company’s sustainability efforts and social impact. Share progress updates, success stories, and challenges to engage employees and inspire them to get involved.

Case Study 2: Patagonia

Patagonia, an outdoor apparel company, is a leading example of a company that prioritizes social and environmental responsibility. The company donates a percentage of its profits to environmental causes, reduces waste in its supply chain, and promotes fair labor practices. Patagonia’s commitment to sustainability has not only attracted environmentally conscious customers but also engaged and motivated employees who share the company’s values.

Conclusion

Building a sustainable corporate culture requires a holistic approach that encompasses employee engagement and awareness-raising initiatives. By prioritizing strategies that promote employee well-being, foster open communication, and demonstrate social responsibility, companies can create a positive and enduring corporate culture that benefits both employees and the broader community.

Bottom line: Futurology is not fortune telling. Futurists use a scientific approach to create their deliverables, but a methodology and tools like those in FutureHacking™ can empower anyone to engage in futurology themselves.

Image credit: Pexels

Subscribe to Human-Centered Change & Innovation WeeklySign up here to get Human-Centered Change & Innovation Weekly delivered to your inbox every week.

Preparing for the AI-Driven Workforce

Steps to Boost Workplace Productivity

Preparing for the AI-Driven Workforce

GUEST POST from Chateau G Pato

As artificial intelligence continues to revolutionize the way we work, it is essential for businesses to adapt and prepare for an AI-driven workforce. With the right strategies in place, companies can harness the power of AI to boost productivity, create efficiencies, and drive innovation. In this article, we will explore the steps that businesses can take to prepare for the AI-driven workforce and ultimately enhance workplace productivity.

Step 1: Invest in AI Training and Education
One of the most critical steps in preparing for an AI-driven workforce is to invest in training and education for employees. By providing comprehensive training programs on AI technologies and tools, employees can develop the skills necessary to work alongside AI systems effectively. This will not only help employees feel more confident in their roles but also increase overall productivity within the organization.

Case Study 1: Amazon

Amazon, a global e-commerce giant, is a prime example of a company that has successfully integrated AI into its workforce. Through its Amazon Robotics program, the company has automated numerous tasks in its fulfillment centers, allowing employees to focus on more complex and strategic roles. By providing training programs on how to work alongside AI-powered robots, Amazon has been able to boost workplace productivity and efficiency.

Step 2: Foster a Culture of Innovation and Collaboration
Another key step in preparing for the AI-driven workforce is to foster a culture of innovation and collaboration within the organization. By promoting an environment that encourages experimentation and the sharing of ideas, businesses can unlock the full potential of AI technologies and drive greater productivity. By encouraging employees to collaborate with AI systems and explore new ways of working, businesses can stay ahead of the curve in today’s rapidly changing digital landscape.

Case Study 2: Google

Google, a leading technology company, is known for its innovative approach to AI-driven workforce development. Through its AI research lab, DeepMind, Google has been able to develop cutting-edge AI technologies that enhance workplace productivity. By fostering a culture of collaboration between human employees and AI systems, Google has been able to revolutionize the way work is done within the organization, leading to increased productivity and efficiency.

Conclusion

Preparing for the AI-driven workforce is essential for businesses looking to stay competitive in today’s digital age. By investing in AI training and education, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration, and learning from successful case studies such as Amazon and Google, businesses can effectively boost workplace productivity and drive success in the AI-driven future. Are you ready to embrace the future of work with AI?

Bottom line: The Change Planning Toolkit™ is grounded in extensive research and proven methodologies, providing users with a reliable and evidence-based approach to change management. The toolkit offers a comprehensive set of tools and resources that guide users through each stage of the change planning process, enabling them to develop effective strategies and navigate potential obstacles with confidence.

Image credit: Pixabay

Subscribe to Human-Centered Change & Innovation WeeklySign up here to get Human-Centered Change & Innovation Weekly delivered to your inbox every week.

The Importance of Continuous Learning

Developing Growth Mindsets for Employee Engagement and Innovation

The Importance of Continuous Learning

GUEST POST from Art Inteligencia

In today’s rapidly changing business landscape, continuous learning is more important than ever. It is essential for organizations to foster a culture of growth mindset among their employees in order to drive employee engagement and encourage innovation. In this article, we will explore the significance of continuous learning and how it can create a positive impact on the overall success of a company.

Continuous learning is the process of acquiring new knowledge and skills throughout one’s career. It is about constantly seeking out new opportunities for growth and development, whether through formal training programs, informal learning experiences, or on-the-job experiences. By encouraging employees to engage in continuous learning, organizations can foster a culture of curiosity, creativity, and adaptability.

One of the key benefits of continuous learning is its impact on employee engagement. When employees are given the opportunity to learn and grow, they are more likely to feel motivated and invested in their work. This, in turn, can lead to increased productivity, better job satisfaction, and higher levels of employee retention. A study conducted by Gallup found that companies with highly engaged employees are 21% more profitable than those with low levels of engagement. By investing in continuous learning opportunities for their employees, organizations can create a more engaged and committed workforce.

Furthermore, continuous learning can also drive innovation within an organization. By encouraging employees to constantly expand their knowledge and skills, companies can create a culture of experimentation and creativity. Employees who are willing to take risks and try new things are more likely to come up with innovative solutions to complex problems. This can give organizations a competitive edge in the marketplace and help them stay ahead of the curve.

To illustrate the importance of continuous learning in driving employee engagement and innovation, let’s look at two case studies:

Case Study 1: Google

Google is widely known for its innovative culture and commitment to continuous learning. The company encourages its employees to spend 20% of their time on personal projects that interest them, allowing them to explore new ideas and concepts outside of their daily responsibilities. This practice has led to the development of some of Google’s most successful products, including Gmail and Google News. By fostering a culture of continuous learning and experimentation, Google has been able to stay at the forefront of the technology industry.

Case Study 2: IBM

IBM has also seen the benefits of continuous learning in driving employee engagement and innovation. The company offers a wide range of training and development programs for its employees, including online courses, workshops, and mentorship opportunities. By investing in the professional growth of its workforce, IBM has been able to create a culture of continuous improvement and innovation. This has enabled the company to stay competitive in a rapidly changing market and deliver cutting-edge solutions to its clients.

Conclusion

Continuous learning is essential for organizations looking to drive employee engagement and foster a culture of innovation. By investing in the professional growth of their workforce and encouraging a growth mindset, companies can create a more engaged and creative workforce that is better equipped to meet the challenges of the future. Organizations that prioritize continuous learning are likely to see greater levels of employee satisfaction, higher levels of productivity, and increased levels of innovation. Ultimately, continuous learning is not just a nice-to-have, but a must-have for companies looking to thrive in a dynamic and ever-changing business environment.

Bottom line: Futurists are not fortune tellers. They use a formal approach to achieve their outcomes, but a methodology and tools like those in FutureHacking™ can empower anyone to be their own futurist.

Image credit: Pixabay

Subscribe to Human-Centered Change & Innovation WeeklySign up here to get Human-Centered Change & Innovation Weekly delivered to your inbox every week.

Managing Remote Teams

Insights from Successful Remote Leaders

Managing Remote Teams: Insights from Successful Remote Leaders

GUEST POST from Chateau G Pato

In today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving working world, remote teams have become increasingly common. With advances in technology and shifting employee preferences, organizations are embracing the idea of distributed teams to enhance flexibility and access to a global talent pool. However, managing remote teams comes with its own set of challenges, necessitating strong leadership and effective communication strategies.

To shed light on this topic, we have gathered insights from successful remote leaders who have navigated the complexities of managing teams across geographical boundaries. Through their experiences, we can garner valuable lessons on how to optimize the performance and cohesion of remote teams.

Case Study 1: Sarah Mitchell, CEO of a Tech Startup

Sarah Mitchell, the CEO of a tech startup, oversees a team of developers and marketers spread across different time zones. Despite the physical distance, Sarah has been able to create a cohesive and high-performing team through clear communication and fostering a culture of trust. She emphasizes the importance of setting clear expectations, leveraging technology for seamless collaboration, and establishing regular check-ins to ensure everyone is on the same page. By prioritizing transparency and open dialogue, Sarah has fostered a sense of belonging among team members, leading to increased engagement and productivity.

Case Study 2: David Thompson, Director of Operations at a Global Corporation

David Thompson, the Director of Operations at a global corporation, manages a remote team of project managers and sales representatives located in various countries. To ensure effective communication and collaboration, David has implemented regular team meetings, virtual training sessions, and project management tools to streamline workflows. He emphasizes the importance of building relationships with team members through one-on-one meetings and recognizing individual achievements to boost morale and motivation. By promoting a culture of inclusivity and support, David has built a high-performing team that excels in meeting targets and driving business growth.

Conclusion

Managing remote teams requires a combination of strong leadership, effective communication, and a culture of trust and collaboration. By learning from successful remote leaders like Sarah Mitchell and David Thompson, organizations can unlock the full potential of their distributed teams and drive success in today’s interconnected world. Embracing innovative technologies and fostering a sense of community among team members are key ingredients to creating a thriving remote team that delivers exceptional results.

Bottom line: The Change Planning Toolkit™ is grounded in extensive research and proven methodologies, providing users with a reliable and evidence-based approach to change management. The toolkit offers a comprehensive set of tools and resources that guide users through each stage of the change planning process, enabling them to develop effective strategies and navigate potential obstacles with confidence.

Image credit: Pixabay

Subscribe to Human-Centered Change & Innovation WeeklySign up here to get Human-Centered Change & Innovation Weekly delivered to your inbox every week.

Why Change is Hard

Why Change is Hard

In 250 Words or Less

When we think about change, often we look at it as being done to us, not something that we are part of. Initiating change is a scary, overwhelming process that we often avoid because we lack the tools to accumulate buy-in and successfully plan and execute the change in the face of the following obstacles/barriers:

  1. psychological/political
  2. logistical
  3. financial
  4. external

This leads to inaction and preservation of the status quo until the pain becomes too much to bear, or the promise of the change becomes so enticing, that people are willing to drop their resistance and begin engaging in the activities necessary to realize the intended outcomes of the change.

Organizations must identify up-front not only why people may resist, but also who will likely resist. Some of the typical reasons why people will resist include:

  • loss of certainty (includes fear of job loss)
  • loss of purpose, direction, or status
  • loss of mastery (includes loss of expertise/recognition)
  • loss of control or ownership
  • loss of connection or attachment
  • lack of trust or clarity
  • fear of failure (feel unprepared)
  • seeing proposed change as irrelevant or a bad idea

Finally, change is hard because even if you idedntify and overcome the resistance/obstacles/barriers, hiding below the surface is the even more daunting prospect that according to a 2009 ProSci study, 73% of organizations are at or near change saturation — the point at which organizations are incapable of absorbing additional change.

(248 words)

SPECIAL BONUS

One tool I created for the Change Planning Toolkit™ that will assist you in creating a stronger change strategy and more targeted communications as you lower resistance and get people to choose change are the Eight Change Mindsets:

Eight Change Mindsets to Harness for Success

Obviously it is really hard to fit everything into 250 words so I had to leave some great other highlights of why change is hard, including this one:

In a 2008 global CEO study conducted by IBM on the enterprise of the future, the top challenges to successfully implementing strategic change were identified as:

  1. changing mindsets and attitudes (58 percent)
  2. corporate culture (49 percent)
  3. underestimating complexity (35 percent)
  4. shortage of resources (33 percent)
  5. lack of commitment from higher management (32 percent)
  6. lack of change know-how (20 percent)
  7. lack of motivation of employees involved (16 percent)

And here are some other challenges I would have included in the list:

  • lack of tools
  • lack of training
  • stakeholder misalignment
  • lack of buy in
  • change saturation
  • change fatigue
  • lack of change readiness
  • missing prerequisites
  • underestimating resistance
  • missing resources needed to succeed
  • underestimating risks and barriers
  • underestimating benefits of the status quo

To make change easier you’ll definitely want to transform how you plan and execute change into a more visual and collaborative approach, ideally suited for remote and hybrid interactions. It’s all laid out in my latest book Charting Change and supported by the Change Planning Toolkit™. A growing number of universities are picking up and teaching this new modern approach. Why not you?

Sources:

  1. Charting Change by Braden Kelley, Palgrave Macmillan, 2016
  2. Marsh survey on health, productivity and absenteeism—Prosci, 2009

Image Credit: Unsplash


Accelerate your change and transformation success

Subscribe to Human-Centered Change & Innovation WeeklySign up here to get Human-Centered Change & Innovation Weekly delivered to your inbox every week.