Managing Complex Change

In the past few days, I’ve shared a matrix that has received such positive feedback that we decided to make it the focus of our time with you this month. Managing Complex Change is the title of it, but it also could be named Accelerated Goal Achievement or Strengthening Teamwork! Its content is valuable for faster goal achievement as well as for strengthening team understanding and relationships. We think you’ll find it self explanatory, but we’ve added some additional thoughts following the matrix. Take a look and consider how you can best use it.

Vision. Vision (or clear goal) needs to have focus, clarity, and a desired positive outcome. Words are powerful; they grab and hold attention. Assure that the goal that is grabbing your attention deserves the devotion of your time and energy.

Skills. Think in terms of the Value Package^sm that each member contributes to the realization of the goal. Each of your team brings a richer scope of value than normally stated on a resume. Discover the skills, talents, gifts, interests, and personal experiences that go beyond the resume and that add remarkable value to achieving your goals.

Incentives. What are the motivators that inspire others to give their unabashed best? Ask team members how they want to be rewarded in return for their time, intellect, and energy to achieving important goals.

Resources. Here’s a reality check. For what needs to be accomplished, is there a fair allocation of resources? Attention, dollars, space, equipment, knowledge, creativity, time, and recognition are all part of the pool of resources to consider as you determine making progress toward your vision with fewer problems, distractions, and waste.

Action Plan. Consistently, action plans need to be checked. Are they clear and specific as to who does what by when? Have they been checked for potential problems and obstacles that need attention? Is the plan fair in terms of expectations about outcomes desired and resources applied? An effective plan can be trusted. It’s believable, achievable, and accountability is clear, measurable, and happening throughout the journey. Action steps in a fair and realistic plan are communicated, executed, and rewarded.

By Susan B. Wilson, President, Executive Strategies