Used in projects to transform the organization
Transformation projects modify the organisation while changes are modified in the project plan and is treated in Change Management.
“Change uses external influences to modify actions, but transformation modifies beliefs so actions become natural and thereby achieve the desired result.” (Palinkas 2013)
Transformation projects usually are based on the CATS (Change As Three Steps) model proposed by Kurt Lewin. The three steps are:
Unfreeze During this stage we focus on awareness of how the current situation is impacting negatively the organization. Communication is especially important for employees to be informed about the imminent change, the logic behind it and how it will benefit employees.
Transform During this transitioning phase the changes become real. It’s when most people struggle with the new reality as it is marked with uncertainty and fear, making it the hardest step to overcome.
Refreeze This last step is where the acts of reinforcing, stabilizing and solidifying the new state after the change take place. Changes made to organizational processes, goals, structure, offerings or people are accepted and refrozen as the new norm or status quo.
