Change Cycle | System Mindset

The change cycle model is shown in Figure 1. The change cycle recognises that intentional change is a cyclical process. Like any model, it simplifies in order to draw out general principles. The change cycle shows that any change tends to go through four main stages:

• making a compelling case for change,
• planning the change,
• implementing the change,
• reviewing and sustaining the change.

 

Figure 1: Change cycle.

Throughout the process there is a need to secure and sustain commitment to the change so that benefits are realised.

In reality, change is not quite as logical and symmetrical as the model suggests. There are often overlaps between the stages and there is a need to rework the content of earlier stages. The next level of detail (Figure 2) shows the main activities that are undertaken in each of the four phases and the most important change tools that support that phase of work.

 

Figure 2: Change cycle — key activities and tools.

In applying this model, we have found that each phase represents a 'gateway' that, if properly signed off, will enable you to proceed with a high degree of confidence to the next phase of work. If key stakeholders are not committed, or if circumstances change, the chances are that you will need to remake the case for change at some point further down the change process. However painful it might be and however slow it might appear to be, there is little to be gained in trying to shortcut these phases.