Change readiness assessment

What is this method about?

An activity and planning aid that assesses attitudes and perceptions regarding an upcoming change within the organization. The activity gauges change readiness across the organization through interviews with key stakeholders and employee surveys, then uses those insights to generate recommendations that aid in change management planning.

Why use it

This activity helps organizations to enter a transition with a clear understanding of the internal state of the organization and its capacity for change—providing leadership with key information that can be used to build an effective change management strategy and plan.

When should I use it?

Whenever an upcoming change is likely to significantly impact employees and their day-to-day job activities throughout the organization. To gather the most useful insights and gain the most benefit, it is typically best to conduct this activity after employees have been made aware of an upcoming change, but before a full change management plan has been formed.

What you get

The organization will have a more complete understanding of their preparedness for change with regards to how employees and leaders are aligned, what risks and issues need to be taken into consideration and what actions need to be undertaken in order to be better prepared. The resulting research report will contain all the assessment data required for use in change management planning.

At a glance

• Time: Extended
• Effort: High
• Cost: High

Materials

• Sticky notes (optional)
• Markers/felt tips
• Whiteboard or large rolls of brown/white paper
• Software for reporting e.g. Word, Excel
• Research facilities such as meeting rooms, video/audio recording devices and moderators

Who is involved

• SD Designer
• Change Manager
• HR Manager (possible)
• Representative Team members from across the business impacted by the change (10-20 people)
• Senior stakeholders