Culture- It is defined by your people, they are your biggest asset…..work with them.

At People Change Projects we have been reviewing both the project and people elements of change with businesses and found a common theme has been the need for return on investment (ROI) and full benefit realisation. To ensure the change is embedded into the fabric of the business and provide the desired outcome, we have been carrying out a range of people based assessments to ensure the delivery foundations are solid in looking at capabilities, skills, environment, communication, stakeholders and ultimately CULTURE. If there are significant issues in these areas then you are not set up for success and no change will achieve full benefit realisation.

A common pitfall lies in the translation of strategy and vision from board room to coal face. I have experienced inherent problems when people don’t understand the drivers for change and with it become resistant and reluctant in the process.

A previous change initiative I led on was a shining example of understanding the people elements of change, engaging and empowering teams whilst having a strong communication and stakeholder strategy to deliver. The key to success was clear and consistent messaging (sometimes positive and negative) and allowing teams the space and time to change. This was critical to success and it was testament to the attitude and buy in from the people, as we were outsourcing an activity that meant all job roles would be redundant. It required a shift in mindset and the very team that were losing their jobs were the same team that actually up skilled the new teams in their existing process for the benefit of the bigger picture and a company drive to be more efficient and evolve with technology. The very same team stayed on ‘voluntarily’ past their official leave dates to help hand over the activity and provide hyper care support.

This selfless act was a fine example of the sheer pride of the team, great work ethic, culture and overall understanding of the need to change whilst being treated with honesty, trust and respect at all stages.

If you are having challenges in project and programme delivery…..think about the people elements of change and the counter productive impact this could be having on your business benefits. People Change Projects.