One definition of Organizational Development is "planned
change." This means changes to individuals, to work teams, and
to organizations as a whole.Why change?
Let's face it... major change can be painful. It creates
stress in ourselves and out interpersonal relationships, and takes time and work
to do effectively. So why do we change?
First, change is natural. Every
healthy living thing changes, and if we equate ourselves and our organizations
to living things (a metaphore that is pretty accepted in today's business world)
then if we stop changing, then we weaken and eventually die, for we cease being
healthy and alive.
Second, change is required.
The world is not static, and we must keep up with the speed of change
of the rest of the world or we will fall behind.
Third, change leads to well-being.
Change involves giving up the old, transitioning, then welcoming the new.
If change has been well-planned and executed (our job in Org Dev) then the
change will lead to a better place, and will position people to
invite more change that will inevitably come.
What Leads People and Organizations to Change?
If we are to plan and prepare for change, we need to
understand what leads people and organizations to change.
Simply put, change happens when it becomes more desireable
to change then to stay where you are.
