We know change is constant, and organizations need to keep current. So why do organization changes happen, yet a number fail to make any real difference? Is your organization addicted to frequent reshuffles? Do leaders understand how to manage change and resolve dysfunction?

Change is not change when people perceive no difference. If an org chart changes, but the way people work remains unchanged, then it is just more of the same. A common mistake is that reorgs are sometimes considered and confused with a business strategy. Reorgs are not a business strategy; they can underpin a business strategy. Expecting different results without a refreshed business strategy – well that’s insanity!

Good leadership understands that a systematic approach is needed, not only to understand the how and why, but to prepare a detailed plan > if there is a failure to commit sufficient time, money and resources to support the reorganization then this is a clear indication that the business strategy element is missing,

By drawing a parallel with reorgs, digital transformation programs suffer similar challenges: lack of detailed design, unclear or missing business targets, insufficient investment, and limited understanding of the impact on the way work will change (see my article on the establishment and importance of digital culture).

Does your organization reshuffle or are they committed to resolve dysfunction?

>>Spoiler Alert<<

If the organization wants sustainable change, systems need to be modified to support a changed way of working. The hardest part according to Harvard Business Review 2016 Getting Reorgs Right is to ‘get the plumbing and wiring right’. HBR uses the analogy of leaders driving the car faster with no steering wheel.

As leaders, we need to step up and avoid the temptation to produce an org chart without a corresponding business strategy. Extending the HBR analogy, add the need to have a dashboard to monitor and measure the change (performance and health metrics: speed , fuel consumption etc.), and a navigation journey plan (map).

Are you driving change or a reluctant passenger? Contact Us.