Change Flashcards
(19 cards)
What is change in a business context?
An ongoing process that businesses must deal with, involving gradual or rapid alterations in operations.
What are internal causes of change in a business?
- Introduction of new technology
- Change in management structure or leadership style
- Changes in size through organic or external growth
What are external causes of change in a business?
- Developments in technology
- Market changes (competitors, new markets, globalization)
- Changes in consumer tastes
- New legislation
- Changes in the workforce
- Changes in the economy
Define planned change.
Change that is created internally, structured, and timetabled with clear objectives and resource allocation.
Define unplanned change.
Change that occurs in response to a shock, often unstructured and under-resourced.
What is the need to change production methods?
To match changing customer demands, requiring investment in research, development, and technology.
Why do businesses need to develop new products?
To respond to changing market conditions and anticipate future consumer tastes.
What legal requirements must businesses meet during change?
- Health and safety laws
- Data protection laws
- Consumer protection laws
- Employment laws
What is the importance of managing change effectively?
It supports smooth transitions, reduces resistance, and allows for efficient business operations.
List John Storey’s four different approaches to managing change.
- Imposed total package
- Imposed piecemeal initiatives
- Negotiated total packages
- Negotiated piecemeal packages
What is the ‘imposed total package’ approach?
A whole package of changes presented to employees without consultation.
What is the ‘negotiated total package’ approach?
Change agreed upon through negotiation and consultation with the workforce.
What is Lewin’s first step in removing resistance to change?
Unfreezing - creating motivation for change and helping employees realize the necessity of change.
What does the ‘change or transition’ step in Lewin’s model entail?
Workers learn about changes and need time and support to adapt.
What is the ‘refreezing’ stage in Lewin’s change process?
Establishing stability after changes have been implemented, making new methods the norm.
What factors contribute to resistance to change from managers?
Lack of experience or expertise, fear of new markets, and inadequate leadership skills.
List potential impacts of change on employees.
- Job losses
- Need for upskilling
- Sense of job security
How can change affect customers?
- Wider range of products
- Potential for increased prices
- Access issues due to downsizing
What indicators can be used to evaluate the management of change?
- Delivery times
- Production defects
- Customer satisfaction surveys
- Market share
- Sales turnover
- Profitability
