Change Management series: Prioritizing change. | Shawn's Blog ...

This article is a continuation in our series on how to effectively implement and manage change.

Prioritizing the unexpected.

Like a rainstorm, much of the change that impacts us is unforeseen, blowing in like a summer rainstorm, with little indication of the degree to which we may be impacted. Like a rainstorm, change can often be identified from a distance, but is difficult to track as it approaches, often catching us off guard once it finally arrives.

I have navigated change for decades, and through my work with numerous business owners and executives I have developed a systematic and proven approach which can be used to rapidly prioritize change, allowing us to maintain both hands on the wheel, rather than deciding whether to leap from the car.

In order to develop the prioritization system, the following questions must first be answered:

1. What are my top three priorities (business or personal)?

2. What are my top two short term and long term goals within each priority?

3. What are the known risks, which could derail achievement of these priorities?

4. What opportunities may arise which would further my priorities towards my goal?

With this information in hand, we are better positioned to screen change and quickly determine whether its impact could be detrimental, supportive or progressive.

Change prioritization model:

The model is built around a triage system in order to continuously prioritize and focus attention and efforts. The system also allows for the rapid identification of risk and opportunity, each requiring their own series of actions to mitigate or capitalize in order to keep priorities on track.

The triage system includes analysis of the change in three critical areas:

1. Severity. What is the degree of impact of change might have, and what opportunities exist for it to derail or improve current priorities?

2. Significance. What is the extent to which the change may impact the priorities?

3. Strategy. What possible strategies might be employed in order to pursue and successfully manage the change?

Here is a visual depiction of the model:

Remember that change, whether it is unplanned or pursued, must be prioritized continuously. Applying this model will help you to continuously maintain a priority on those changes that may impact your direction.

Next week I will further dissect the model and demonstrate pragmatic ways in which is can be applied.

? Shawn Casemore 2012. All rights reserved.

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An expert in Operational efficiency and effectiveness, Shawn provides thought provoking insights and ideas on how to increase efficiency and effectiveness to improve profitability and reduce risk.

Source: http://shawncasemore.wordpress.com/2012/03/19/change-management-series-prioritizing-change/

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