This is an methodology based on 'Action Research' which smoothly lets the OD practitioner implement any change project. It is logical in its approach and is a powerful tool to take you through the core activities. We have highlighted only three issues for each stage. Working with you on an OD project we will address all perspectives and issues so that change takes place seamlessly.
Stage 1 - Entry & Contracting
This is the start of the five stage process. This is especially important to define the project and the terms of working with the Sponsor and the Change Agent. Depending on the nature of the change project, you will have to address a number of issues.
Look at problems from different angles
Identify the root cause of problems
Test for History. Have these problems arisen before?
Stage 2 - Data Collection and Diagnosis
This flows from Stage 1 and requires the Change Agent to collect information from which to assess the core problems of issues that need to be fixed. This stage requires considering what type of information to collect.
Much of this will be based on interviews and talking with key people. It is important to be objective and examine opinions and ideas from a variety of people. Some projects may require facts and figures, and some form of analysis to identify trends in performance.
Knowing that you have to use both logical facts and figures and opinions and viewpoints is important in ensuring that your analysis will be accurate.
What data will you have to collect?
Is data available? What will you do if information is not available?
If you have to talk with others to understand more about the problem, how will you ensure confidentiality?
Stage 3 - Analysis is a natural outcome from Data Collection
Here, you will be looking at the major causes and how they impact performance. You will want to separate cause from effect and tackle the problem with a plan of action.
What does the data or the information tell you about the cause of the problem?
Have you ensured that you look at the problem from different viewpoints?
Before you reach a conclusion, test for understanding with others to ensure you have a firm grip of the key issues
Stage 4 - Implementation
Who will implement the solution and how will it be measured?
Does the solution fit the sponsor's needs and objectives? Is the sponsor ready to implement the solution?
Does the culture have the day to day practices to sustain the solution? If not, what needs to be done to ensure that the solution will be implemented?
This focuses upon and addresses the issue of how the changes will be implemented and by whom.
Stage 5 - Review & Feedback
This completes the process by setting up methods to measure progress. This is very much a review period to examine what worked and what did not. Hopefully, learning from this exercise will help you in formulating your next project.
Measure only that which can be managed
Establish soft and hard measures for implementation
Develop an implementation plan with clear roles and responsibilities
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