Lesson 2: Nature of Planned Change

NATURE OF PLANNED CHANGE

By: Vina Almeda

Organizational Development is directed in bringing about planned change in order to increase the organizations’ preferences, also it is generally initiated and implemented by managers often with the help of an OD practice. Planned change can be used by organizations:

1. To solve problems
2. To learn from experience
3. To adapt to external environmental change
4. To improve performance
5. To influence future changes
6. To reframe shared perceptions

NOTE: The planned change process can vary depending on the change situation.

Change in the organization can be accomplished through these four steps:

1. Entering

2. Diagnosing

3. Planning and Implementing

4. Evaluating and Institutionalizing

In order for change to happen one must enter the common grounds of the organization to facilitate and see the problems and possibility for change. You understand the problems of the organization and determine possible solutions for it. Then, the diagnosing process is done. In this part of the process, one runs a diagnosis on the alternatives that will fit best according to the problems. You focus on how and why the problems occurred in order to have a better understanding of the problem. Data gathering is also done in this procedure.

The step of planning and implementing the alternatives follow after. They propose changes that will work best with their objectives and as well with their mission and vision. The last step is the evaluation of the alternatives implemented. It will be evaluated on how the alternatives fit with the policies and procedures of the organization. They will further decide if the changes done will be sustained or eradicated.

In my opinion, change is fundamental in every organization and its something that its members should cope with. Change normally enables an organization to work better. Whether it is an incremental change, if it will increase the effectiveness of the organization, then they should consider these methods and procedures.

Reference: Notes from class discussions and reflections