Bad Moves of Unexpected Obstacles

Periodically, senior managers mandate big change or else. While the commitment is admirable, current culture may see the policy as a win for management and a loss for the workers. Bad move. As one wise mentor said, “Involve them.” Please, do not under-estimate the status quo culture. Don’t be afraid but be intentionally wise. The following questions are to help navigate the risky waters. What are the values of the current culture and will they need to change to ensure success? Where is the overlap between current methods and future techniques? What is the best way to capitalize on mutual goals? What are the strengths and weaknesses of the change plan? Of the current culture? Pick battles where change is the strongest and status quo is weakest. With any serious change movement, there will be setbacks, mistakes and unexpected obstacles. Activities that might have seemed trivial may suddenly become rallying points for the status quo culture. Keep going, carefully choose battles and take alternative paths as necessary. The lesson is to be willing to change the change. In other words adapt to the dynamic environment in method while remaining committed to the goals in principle.