Change management is a structured process for planning and implementing new ways of operating within an organization. The goal is to make all stakeholders understand that the organization will improve after implementing the change. The key role in any process is that of the owner of the process; in change management, that function is called a change manager. Standardized processes and procedures ensure that any changes made to the infrastructure are methodically analyzed, approved, documented, implemented and reviewed.
To ensure successful change management, managers and business leaders must understand the four essential steps involved. First, performing an analysis and review, or an autopsy of the project, can help business leaders comprehend if a change initiative was a success, a failure, or an uneven outcome. Second, it is important to identify the stakeholders that influence the success of the project. When people in your organization are involved in recognizing challenges and recommending improvements, they will understand the reasoning behind process changes and new initiatives.
Third, use key performance indicators and metrics contained in the change management plan to measure progress. An effective management strategy is essential to guarantee that companies make a successful transition and adapt to any changes that may occur. Finally, involve representatives from across your organization at every stage of the change process, from identifying challenges and planning improvements to implementation and reflection. Stakeholder participation includes all activities to engage, support and update stakeholders in the organizational change management process. They raise awareness of the various challenges or problems faced by the organization and that act as forces for change and generate dissatisfaction with the status quo.
There are several models of change management, and your organization can choose the one that makes the most sense for you. However, changes are not managed in the middle of an iteration, but are planned as stories or features for future iterations.
