What is Your Organization’s Capacity for Change?
Posted on October 9th, 2007 by Jamie
In a survey of full-time employees in the U.S., Katzenbach partners found that the group was split 50/50 in their assessment of their own organization’s ability to “change the way things are done.” In the group that said it was easy to change things, 51% described their work environment as positive (and 67% of them enjoy their work). In the group where it was hard to change things, only 21% described it as positive (and only 48% enjoy their work).
Hmmmm. Which side are you on?
Jamie, I dunno. While these couple of data points are interesting, I am not sure what they mean, if they mean anything at all.
For example, some people are change agents–creative, risk-takers, innovators, explorers, entreprenuers and prefer qualitative approaches. Some people much prefer predictability, consistency, quality improvement, order and quantifiable approaches. Neither is necessarily better or worse–just different.
From the report and data it is unclear if these factors were considered in any way in terms of change being “easy” or “hard” and the extent to which work was “enjoyable”.
I’d stay clear of any conclusions about the validity or applicability of this study from the data I could find on their web site. Just me–YMMV!
Cheers!
I agree, Virgil, that one cannot draw firm conclusions from this particular data point. I didn’t mean to imply that these numbers PROVE that your organization (or any single organization) will only succeed if it becomes a place where it’s easier to change the way things are done. I just think it is something worth thinking about.
My guess is that too many staff leaders don’t even know what their people think about how hard or easy it is to change the way things are done in their organization. You’re right that there is no absolute line—it depends on strategy, purpose, and the make up of the specific people you have. But the research reminds me that there is probably value in knowing, exploring, talking about it, etc. Your mileage may vary, but you should at least know what your mileage is!
Thanks (as always!) for your thoughtful comment.