Strategies For Change
There are numerous tools and approaches available to the manager to implement change. These tools however, all fall under only three basic approaches or strategies to implementing change.
Demonstrative Strategies
Assumes: A proposed change can be demonstrated definitively and proved effective.
Resources required: Knowledge and research
Works best: Parties involved share a general consensus as to values and perspectives as to what should be done
Shortcomings: Such consensus is seldom maintained, if even achieved
Integrative Strategies
Assumes: Good relationships and heightened communication will promote change
Resources required: Negotiating, bargaining, and involving all concerned
Works best: Shared commitment to a common value system and differences occur only on priorities and tactics
Shortcomings: Takes more time, rewards bargaining ability, not necessarily the best solution - just an acceptable one
Pressure Strategies
Assumes: Basic dissension between contending parties over values and priorities
Resources required: Force must be applied and power brought to bear
Works best: When the other two won't work
Shortcomings: Behavioral problems
Note that larger changes often require a combination of methods.
Source: Weissman, Harold H. (1977). Overcoming mismanagement in the human services professions. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass Publishers.
© Copyright 2000 Raymond S. Kulzick. All rights reserved. 000827.
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