Transformation That Sticks: Key Lessons for Sustainable Organisational Change
Nov 1, 2024
3 min read
Organisational transformation is challenging, with many efforts failing to achieve lasting success. The recent Harvard Business Review article, Transformations That Work by Michael Mankins and Patrick Litre, reveals that only a small percentage of transformation initiatives succeed over the long term. Often, these efforts fall short because they’re treated as isolated projects instead of ongoing, integrated processes. The article’s insights resonate deeply with me, reinforcing what I’ve come to understand: effective change requires treating transformation as an adaptive journey that’s woven into the fabric of daily operations.
I’m constantly refining my approach to transformation, learning from past experiences and exploring new insights. I’ve been fortunate to guide significant transformations that naturally embraced many of these principles, even before we fully recognised their broader value. Through this process, I’ve seen the power of continuous improvement and the impact of aligning strategic goals with the people who bring them to life. Here are some key practices I’ve found essential for creating meaningful, lasting change:
Transformation is Continuous Transformation is a journey rather than a destination, demanding ongoing adaptation, particularly now as we see rapid advancements in AI and technology. Success comes from embedding an iterative approach to transformation, regularly reviewing key metrics to keep efforts aligned with evolving needs. This creates steady momentum, reflecting my commitment to learning and adapting to ensure success over time.
Embed Change into Daily Operations Transformation often fails when managed separately from daily operations. While PMOs offer valuable support, I’ve seen that true impact occurs when operational teams fully own the change. Integrating transformation goals into regular team metrics and discussions, I encourage data-driven decision-making that turns ambitious goals into actionable steps, bridging strategy with everyday actions.
Manage Energy and Impact Transformation strains energy. Maintaining momentum requires balancing change by sequencing initiatives, celebrating wins, and keeping mindful of the cumulative impact of change on teams. This approach helps prevent overload, supporting both progress and motivation—an approach that’s become central to my philosophy of mindful and sustainable change.
Drive Change from the Middle-Out I believe that lasting change depends on empowering and trusting mid-level leaders. These leaders are critical to connecting strategic vision with operational needs. Equipping them with tools and resources to make grounded decisions enables practical, impactful change from the ground up.
Set Data-Driven Aspirational Goals Transformation thrives on goals that go beyond the immediately achievable. Data-driven, aspirational goals encourage innovation, stretch teams, and cultivate a forward-looking culture. Set bold, ambitious goals, harnessing data insights to drive teams confidently beyond incremental improvements.
Ensure Resources for Success Adequate resources are essential for sustainable change. While transformation may aim for long-term cost efficiencies, cutting corners on support for the change can jeopardise success. Budget frameworks should align with key transformation milestones, using data to monitor progress and guide resource allocation effectively. This approach ensures that momentum and resilience are sustained throughout the transformation journey.
And finally, while data and strategy are crucial, we must remember that transformation impacts people at every level. Mindful engagement is essential to make transformation truly people-centric, respecting how change affects both daily work and personal dynamics. Lasting transformation balances clear objectives with empathy, ensuring that individuals feel valued and supported throughout the journey.
Embracing both data-driven strategy and a people-centred approach has been fundamental to my work, and I believe this combination is what ultimately empowers organisations to achieve meaningful, lasting change well into the future.
