Understanding and Implementing Change in the Workplace Course

Module 1: Change and Its Impacts

• Define the process of change in work settings and why leaders must adapt in a VUCA environment.
• Identify internal and external sources of change and distinguish adaptive vs. transformational shifts (see “Sources of Change” table, PDF p. 10).
• Predict positive and negative outcomes of change for people, processes, and performance.
• Describe common stages of change and how they unfold in organizations.

Module 2: Change Reactions and Tolerance Levels

• Recognize typical reactions to change (e.g., shock, denial, anger, testing, acceptance) and their impacts at work.
• Assess personal change tolerance using the Change Readiness traits (resourcefulness, optimism, adaptability, etc.).
• Gauge others’ tolerance levels to tailor support and engagement strategies.
• Apply leader responses that match reactions (e.g., listen/empathize, stand firm, provide training, give space).

Module 3: Utilizing Change Management Strategies

• Survey core models and when to use them, including PDCA/Deming (process-focused) and ADKAR (people-focused).
• Plan and pilot change, manage resistance, and provide knowledge, ability, and reinforcement for adoption.
• Evaluate effectiveness with goals, scope coverage, leadership/employee adoption, and outcome metrics.
• Report status to stakeholders via appropriate formats (verbal, written, presentations, standard reports).

Module 4: Analyzing the Connection Between Communication and Change

• Explain how strategy relies on clear, consistent communication to drive change.
• Create a communication plan using What/Who/When/How and reinforce messages (“say it 7 times”).
• Discuss change before, during, and after initiatives to build buy-in, surface concerns, and capture lessons learned.
• Select channels and timelines that sustain transparency and engagement across the change lifecycle.