A client asked what I thought would be the greatest challenge for their program. Hmmm, let me think about that, given we had just talked about our differentiators as a partner and change being my area of competency, let’s just start with some low hanging fruit!
Of course I led with organizational change given this program had started, stopped, restarted, change direction for the RFP, and then re re-changed direction by the time we got to orals. Resoundingly, they agreed, and the kicker came when the CHRO asked how Digital Change is different from other Change programs. The spotlight shown on me and I was locked and loaded!
1. Approach
We recognize that not every client can dedicate resources for a change program and that inevitably “stuff” happens that detract attention away from this effort. Our new approach is to lead with an Envision Studio which will plan the change management journey and focus on the end user experience while planning for traditional change activities. In addition, we regroup every 4 to 6 weeks with Co-creation Studios to focus on the challenges at hand, and create the activities to support that effort. In the event something pressing comes up, we have Pop-Up Studios to address this. So, in small spurts, our clients are well informed of what needs to happen and what will happen so they can plan accordingly, and we have the flexibility to make changes on the go and not detract from the overall program and approach.
2. Tools
Two of the most impressive game changers are the mobile app and change insights dashboard to help support this new approach. Now, who doesn’t love a good mobile app? The mobile app for change agents keeps them engaged and informed, AND you can also add fun by creating a point structure that not only makes change stick, but allows them to have fun while doing this.
In addition, the change insights dashboard can combine internal and external data sources, as well as incorporate IBM Watson technology to get an accurate and timely reading on the pulse of the organization which, in turn, allows us to adjust our change activities to better support the needs of the organization.
Now, how awesome is this!!!