Management pass-notes... April 2016

... Change management

I know this one – is it all to do with managing change?

A bit of a giveaway phrase really, but to give a more detailed definition, conducting change management is the practice of convincing people to use things, or do things, differently in a way that changes an organisation. It operates on two levels – individuals and the organisation.

Why do I need to know about it?

Change is so important in contemporary business that to ignore how to manage it effectively would be short-sighted. Experts say that managing it well gives a competitive advantage.

It’s not exactly a new idea – what’s changed recently?

True: as an idea it can trace its roots back to the 1960s, and it really developed in practical terms during the 1990s. But it is gaining credibility. The Association of Change Management Professionals is launching its certification for change management practitioners this year.

Is it any good?

Several high-profile case studies are used to illustrate the effectiveness of taking change seriously. One of the most famous is Shell, which in 2004 initiated its Downstream-One project in response to challenging times in its business. The project aimed to standardise the company’s processes around the world, and was widely seen as successful for improving the prospects of the business.

How do I learn more?

There are numerous courses online, and several bodies issue certifications in change management. As well as the aforementioned Association of Change Management Professionals, exam institute APMG International accredits courses. You can also turn to an academic institution – Warwick University and Sheffield University both offer courses.