Change Management & Execution Flashcards

Which change management model emphasizes that change unfreezes existing behaviors, transitions to new ones, and then refreezes them?

Answer: Lewin's Change Model

Lewin's Change Model uses three stages—Unfreeze, Change, and Refreeze—to describe how organizations shift from current to desired states.

A strategic plan fails during implementation because middle managers undermine the changes. This is best described as resistance from which level?

Answer: The permafrost layer

The 'permafrost layer' refers to middle management resistance where directives from top leadership fail to penetrate through to frontline employees.

What is the primary purpose of a change readiness assessment?

Answer: To measure an organization's capacity and willingness to adopt change

A change readiness assessment evaluates the organization's current capability, culture, and willingness to successfully adopt planned changes.

During a large-scale strategic change, which communication approach is most effective for reducing employee anxiety?

Answer: Providing frequent, transparent, and two-way communication throughout

Frequent, transparent, and two-way communication reduces uncertainty and builds trust throughout the change process.

In the ADKAR model, what does the 'K' stand for?

Answer: Knowledge of how to change

In ADKAR, 'K' stands for Knowledge—understanding how to change and what the change entails.

Which technique is most appropriate for identifying stakeholders who have high influence but low support for a strategic change?

Answer: Stakeholder mapping/power-interest grid

A stakeholder mapping grid plots stakeholders by power and interest, helping identify influential opponents who need targeted engagement.

What is a 'burning platform' in the context of change management?

Answer: A compelling reason or crisis that makes change urgently necessary

A 'burning platform' is a metaphor for an urgent, compelling reason that forces an organization to change or face severe consequences.